Looking for festive crafts for seniors in aged care? These character-themed paper chains are a delightful way to bring holiday cheer to your community. This inclusive activity is designed for all ability levels, providing a wonderful therapeutic experience that helps maintain fine motor skills. Whether you are creating a jolly Santa, a frosty Snowman, or a festive Elf, this collaborative project fosters social interaction and a sense of accomplishment among residents.
Materials Needed for Christmas Paper Chains
Gather these supplies for a successful senior-friendly craft session:
- Pre-cut paper strips: Red (Santa), White (Snowman), and Green (Elf).
- Pre-printed character faces: Cut-outs of Santa, Snowman, and Elf faces.
- Glue sticks: Easy to grip and less mess.
- Cotton balls: For Santa’s soft beard.
- Markers: To add personal touches.
- Optional decorations: Pre-cut black belts or orange carrot noses.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pieces
Cut the colored paper into strips (approx. 2 inches wide and 8 inches long). Have all the pre-cut character features like faces, hats, and belts ready in small bowls on the table. This makes it easy for residents to choose the parts for their chosen character.
Step 2: Build the Body
Have residents start by creating a standard paper chain using the main color for their character (red for Santa, white for Snowman, green for Elf). They can make the body as long or as short as they like!
Step 3: Add Character Details
Once the body is the desired length, it’s time to bring the character to life!
For the Snowman: Glue the hat onto the top link and the face onto the second link. Then, glue the black “coal” buttons down the front of the white links. You can also attach pipe cleaner arms to the sides.
For Santa or the Elf: Glue the face and hat onto the top-most link of the chain. Then, glue the black belt with its buckle around one of the middle links.
Step 4: Display Your Characters
Once the glue is dry, your festive friends are ready to be displayed! You can hang them from the Christmas tree, dangle them from doorways, or use them to decorate a wall in the common area. They make for a wonderful and cheerful decoration.
📹 Quick Video Tutorial
Need a visual? This brief tutorial shows exactly how to assemble each holiday friend.
🎁 More Festive Fun from Memory Lane Therapy
Try these other easy-to-follow holiday activities:
- Sock Snowman Craft: A soft, tactile project using white socks and rice.
- Santa Popsicle Stick Craft: Create mini Santa ornaments using simple painted sticks.
- Easy DIY Pop-Up Christmas Card: Simple pop-up Christmas card craft for seniors.
