If you’re looking for a fun and magical Christmas craft to do with the kids, you have to try making reindeer food. It’s a lovely little tradition that gets everyone excited for Christmas Eve, and it’s simple enough for even the youngest children to help with.
Suitable for all ages, this craft takes just four easy steps to bring to life — and it’s a great way to keep little hands busy in the run-up to Christmas.
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What You’ll Need
- Oats or birdseed
- Edible glitter
- A small plastic or brown paper bag
- Paper and a pen
- Ribbon or tape (optional)
How to Make It
1. Mix the oats or birdseed with the glitter in your small plastic or brown paper bag.
2. Add the magic to the mixture by writing the following verse on a piece of paper:
> “Sprinkle on the lawn at night.
> The moon will make it sparkle bright.
> Santa’s reindeer fly and roam –
> This will guide them to your home.”
3. Put the paper into the bag, or attach it with the ribbon or tape. Store your bag safely away until you’re ready to use it.
4. On Christmas Eve, sprinkle the magic reindeer food outside your house — and Santa and his reindeer are sure to find you!
Once you’ve assembled the reindeer food, keep it stored somewhere safe until Christmas Eve. Then, before Santa arrives, let the kids sprinkle it outside to help guide the reindeer and the sleigh right to your door.
Looking for More Festive Fun?
If you’d like another easy way to keep the kids entertained this Christmas, try our free Christmas word search — perfect for a quiet afternoon indoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is reindeer food made of?
Traditional homemade reindeer food is simply a mix of oats or birdseed with a sprinkle of edible glitter, making it a fun, low-cost craft for Christmas Eve.
What age is this craft suitable for?
This is a lovely activity for children of all ages. Younger children may need help with measuring and mixing, while older kids can write out the verse and decorate the bag themselves.
Can I make reindeer food in advance?
Yes — you can make it any time in the lead-up to Christmas. Just store it in a sealed bag somewhere safe until you’re ready to sprinkle it outside on Christmas Eve.
Where should we sprinkle the reindeer food?
Traditionally, families sprinkle it on the lawn or garden outside their home on Christmas Eve, as a fun way to help guide Santa’s sleigh.
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- 15 Christmas Craft Ideas for Kids to Get You in the Festive Mood
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- Free Christmas Word Search Download
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