Delicious Holiday Craft!

Ok, so this really doesn't have anything to do with reading OR writing...but it was fun, so I am sharing!

We all know that the last day before Winter Break is a wash academically (admit it, you know it's true). However, it is a GREAT day to spend time having fun with and getting to know your students. In fact, I really enjoy this day because I get to do things with my kids that we all enjoy. I spend the day talking and laughing with them...it's a fantastic day of building and strengthening teacher-student relationships.

This past "Day Before Winter Break" (which was the day before Christmas Eve...lucky me!), we did a variety of holiday related activities. However, I saved the best for last because, let's face it, holding something over their heads has it's advantages on this particular day. :) We had a party, but during the party we made...

HOLIDAY TREES! (We all know why they were dubbed with this name...)

This idea was born from my usual go-to craft: Ginger Bread Houses. However, I dislike making these in the classroom. If you've made them before, you know why! They never stand up, they are incredibly messy, and extremely difficult to transport home. I wanted something similar, but more classroom friendly- enter the Holiday Tree. I got some ideas from the net (click here to see the site I referred my Room Mom to) and they turned out so nicely! Set up and clean up were a breeze, the kids loved them, and to transport home all we needed was a quart-sized plastic storage bag!

All you need are:

• Sugar Cones
• Vanilla Frosting
• Green Food Coloring
• Candies of different shapes and sizes
• Sprinkles (aka "Jimmies")
• Plastic knives

Mix up the food coloring with the frosting, apply thick layer to cone, and decorate to your heart's content! Allow to dry for at least an housr before attempting to place the trees into baggies.

If you ever thought of ditching the tried and true Ginger Bread House, give this craft a whirl. I bet you'll love it as much as I did. Take a look at some of the masterpieces that my kiddos created below.