Nanny to Mommy

Everyone would like to be creative, of course, but once you’re an adult, it’s kind of already decided whether you have a creative mind or not. That’s because, first, our brains are more “set in their ways,” and two, because we don’t have as much time as we would like to train our mind to be more creative. Creativity isn’t a gift; it’s trained into your brain. The best time to do this is when you’re young. A person who is creatively stimulated when they’re in their early years will carry that way of thinking through into adulthood. So it’s a good idea to feed your child’s creativity. We show you some ways how to do it below.

These Rae Dunn or Frozen 2 inspired homemade ornament craft for kids were created with products received from Oriental Trading. Although complimentary products were received, all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

If you have been following me since 2014, then you know that I have enjoyed collaborating with Oriental Trading off and on even though I have been a huge fan of theirs for years. I love the variety of products they provide whether it is birthday decorations, educational toys, costumes for the entire family, or crafting supplies. They even have home décor that you can check out as well.

My daughter celebrated her 9th birthday today and we held a slumber party over the weekend. While thinking of activities to include, I decided on having the children make homemade ornaments. I didn't want anything too involved or messy, so we settled on these Rae Dunn or Frozen 2 inspired ornaments. The writing reminds me of Rae Dunn collection pieces while the inside reminds me of Frozen 2. I loved the idea of making ornaments for a winter slumber party because it was a great activity plus they got a little party favor to take home.

If you are new to Elf on the Shelf or considering it for the first time, this list may or may not be for you. I was forced into the tradition of Elf on the Shelf. My mother-in-law gifted us the little creature when my daughter wasn't quite three years old. It was annoying to deal with as it was just another thing for us to deal with during the holidays aka our busiest time of year. Then my son was born and became mobile, so I realized I was gifted this wonderful incentive to help him behave because no child wants to send a bad report to Santa himself aka the big guy.

My husband and I tend to forget to move our elf so we tell our kids "Annie (or elf) must really like that spot". But unfortunately, we can't do this for 25 straight days. So, I have created the lazy easy elf on the shelf ideas for parents who are like me and don’t like messy are super involved mischiefs for their elves to get up to.

My friends have been getting together more frequently during the holidays. It can still be hard to get everyone together especially since most of us are married with children, but we still feel it is important to spend time together. This year we did our first Thanksgiving and for the past few years we have been getting together for a Christmas/New Years shindig. This year, I suggestion we do an Ugly Christmas Sweater party because honestly? Themed parties are so MUCH FUN!

I personally love the variety to choose from at UglyChristmasSweater.com. Whatever you like, they have something for you. Rick and Morty, a variety of Disney, plenty of different Christmas movies, etc. Plus they have onesies, leggings, and more on top of sweater options. They even have ones that light too.

About Pavilion Books: "Pavilion Books is a thriving independent London-based publisher specialising in illustrated books for the UK and all international markets. We publish around 150 books a year under our range of established imprints; Batsford, Collins & Brown, National Trust, Pavilion, Pavilion Children’s, Pitkin and Portico. Our high-profile authors include Millie Marotta, Oz Clarke and Gennaro Contaldo and we specialise in managing brand-led publishing programmes with brands and organisations such as The National Trust, Good Housekeeping and Mollie Makes. At the core of our business are specialist lists such as craft, cookery, children’s and textile art."