Stick Santas

Make a simple natural Christmas decoration; perfect for young children to paint.

Introduction

Cut some sticks diagonally - keep the saw upright and move the wood to create the angle. Then cut the sticks flat at the other end so you can stand the sticks upright.

If you want to purchase a set of pre-cut sticks, our wooden figure set is what you need.

* Muddy Faces actively promotes child-led outdoor play & learning. We recognise and believe in the curiosity that children have and their drive to explore and discover. We hope that you will bear this in mind when considering more prescribed activities like this one – often much more creative ideas will occur if resources are simply provided and children are given the time and space to explore independently.

What you'll need

sturdy, fairly thick sticks
hacksaw
cotton wool
glue
paintbrush & paints

This activity has been provided by

Useful items from our shop

Item available from our shop

Environmental Considerations

Consider the environmental impact of preparing, carrying out & completing this activity. Could this impact be reduced? Specific considerations for this activity could include:

source of wood
leave no trace if working outdoors

Health & Safety Considerations

Follow your usual operating procedures and carry out appropriate risk benefit assessments.
Some considerations particular to this activity include:

using a hack saw

Step #1

Paint the bottom half of the oval white, for Santa’s beard.

Allow to dry.

Step #2

Paint the top third red, for the hat.

Leave a plain strip across the middle, for the face.

Allow to dry.

Step #3

Paint or draw a white line along the straight edge of the red hat to create a white ruff/rim.

Paint a white dot to make a bobble for the hat. Alternatively you can use glue and cotton wool for the white rim, bobble and beard.

Leave to dry.

Step #4

Finish off by drawing in the eyes with a black marker pen on the strip between the beard and the hat.

Take it further:

a crowd of Santas all standing together in the garden or window make a really effective display
or you could hide them around your setting and play Hunt The Santa!
be creative and make an Elf…

Disclaimer: Muddy Faces cannot take any responsibility for accidents or damage that occurs as a result of following this activity.You are responsible for making sure the activity is conducted safely.