10 Creative Holiday Projects to Keep Kids Busy This Holiday

The school holidays are here and, while rest is important, so is keeping little minds active and engaged. Creative projects are a wonderful way to do both. They build skills, encourage imagination and give kids a sense of pride in what they’ve made. The best part? You don’t need to look far for supplies. At Forum Stationers, we stock everything your child needs to dive into a holiday full of making, creating and exploring.

Here are 10 creative holiday projects to get you started.

1. Air Dry Clay Creations

Clay is one of the most satisfying materials for kids to work with. It’s tactile, versatile and the results last long after the holiday is over. Air dry clay requires no kiln or special equipment, just hands, imagination and a little patience.

• Pinch pots and mini bowls
• Hand or footprint keepsakes
• Miniature animals or figurines
• Name plaques for bedroom doors

Tip: Once dry, paint the clay with poster paint for an extra splash of colour. Find Jovi Air Dry Clay in store at Forum Stationers.

2. Colouring and Hand-Drawn Comic Strips

Never underestimate the power of a good set of markers. Colouring is calming, creative and great for focus and for older kids, creating their own comic strip characters and stories is a wonderful way to combine art and storytelling.

• Colour-by-number pages
• Hand-drawn comic strips with their own characters
• Decorated bookmarks
• Personalised gift wrap using plain paper and markers

Tip: Carioca Joy and Jumbo markers are super washable, perfect for younger kids who like to colour with enthusiasm (and slightly outside the lines).

3. Paper Flowers and Origami

Coloured paper and cardstock open up a world of possibilities. Folding, cutting and shaping paper teaches kids patience, precision and problem-solving, all while having fun.

• Paper flowers in bright colours
• Simple origami animals
• Paper chains and garlands to decorate their room
• Handmade greeting cards for family members

Tip: Our wide range of coloured paper and cardstock comes in every shade imaginable. Let your child pick their favourites, it’s half the fun.

4. Feather Craft Animals

Craft feathers are one of those supplies that instantly spark excitement. Colourful, fluffy and endlessly versatile, they can transform a simple project into something truly magical.

• Feather owls, peacocks or flamingos
• Decorated picture frames
• DIY feather bookmarks
• Carnival masks using cardboard and feathers

Tip: Combine feathers with a glue stick, googly eyes and cardboard for a quick and satisfying afternoon craft that even younger kids can enjoy.

5. Vision Boards and Collages

Collage art is a fantastic way for kids to express themselves. Give them a stack of coloured paper, some old magazines, stickers, scissors and a glue stick and watch them go. For older kids, a personal vision board is a meaningful and creative project.

• Holiday memory collage
• Favourite things vision board
• Abstract colour collage using cut paper shapes

Tip: A Pritt glue stick is mess-free and dries clear, ideal for younger crafters who are still mastering the art of “just a little bit of glue”.

6. Paint by Numbers

Paint by numbers is the perfect activity for kids who love art but want a little guidance. The result is always impressive and the process is wonderfully calming. Our Brushme Paint by Numbers range features beautiful designs that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

• A creative activity that keeps kids engaged for hours
• Teaches colour recognition, patience and fine motor skills
• A finished piece they can frame and display with pride

Tip: Find the Brushme range in store at Forum Stationers, they also make a wonderful gift idea.

7. Puzzle Days

Sometimes the best holiday activity is one where everyone unplugs and gathers around a table. Puzzles are a brilliant screen-free option that sharpens problem-solving skills and encourages the whole family to work together.

• Choose a puzzle that suits your child’s age and skill level
• Make it a family challenge, who can find the most pieces?
• Frame the finished puzzle as a holiday keepsake

Tip: We stock a range of puzzles in store, from toddler-friendly to more challenging options for older kids and adults.

8. Sidewalk Chalk Art

Get kids outside and moving with sidewalk chalk. It’s creative, physical and completely washable, which means no stress for parents. The driveway becomes a canvas and the possibilities are endless.

• Draw a hopscotch course
• Create a life-sized body outline and decorate it
• Draw a town with roads, houses and gardens
• Write encouraging messages on the pavement for neighbours

Tip: Jumbo sidewalk chalk is easy for little hands to hold and covers large areas quickly, great for big, bold outdoor art.

9. Handmade Greeting Cards

Encourage kids to think of others this holiday by making handmade cards for grandparents, friends or teachers. It’s a meaningful project that teaches thoughtfulness and gives kids a real sense of purpose.

• Fold cardstock and decorate with markers, stickers or stamps
• Add feathers, cut paper shapes or clay decorations
• Write a personal message inside

Tip: This is a lovely rainy day activity that combines writing, art and emotional intelligence, all in one sitting.

10. Dream Catchers

Dream catchers are a beautiful and slightly more involved craft that older kids will love. Using craft supplies from Forum Stationers, you can create stunning pieces that double as bedroom decorations.

• Use a paper plate or a cardboard ring as the base
• Weave string or wool through the centre
• Hang colourful feathers, beads and ribbon from the bottom

Tip: Our craft feathers come in a gorgeous range of bright colours, perfect for making dream catchers that are as bold and unique as your child.

Find Everything You Need at Forum Stationers.

The holidays are a precious time to slow down, get creative and make memories together. Whether your child loves painting, sculpting, building or colouring, Forum Stationers has everything they need to bring their ideas to life.

From air-dry clay and coloured paper to craft feathers, markers and puzzles, it’s all waiting for you in store.

Pop into your nearest Forum Stationers branch and let the creating begin.