In this post, I’m going to show you how to make a DIY paper lantern with kids. This is a really simple lantern that even toddlers can get involved with making. Making these lanterns is a fantastic Winter activities for kids.
What’s more, they’re great to use on a lantern walk which is a great way to get kids outside in winter. I love outdoor activities for children like this one.
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We all know how hard it can be to get outside with young kids in winter. We often blame the shorter days but actually this can be worked to our advantage sometimes.
Many children love to go outside after dark but at some times of the year, this is after their bedtime. A winter lantern walk is perfect. Find more outdoor activities for kids in winter here.
How to make a DIY paper lantern
You will need:
- White paper bags *
- Battery operated tea lights *
- Things to decorate the bag
There are so many ways to decorate these lanterns. Here are a few suggestions for you.
- Tissue paper * collage (you’ll also need glue)
- Paints
- Felt top pens
- Stickers
- Washi tape *
My children had lots of fun decorating these beautiful and simple paper bag luminaries. They used tissue paper and glue to make a colourful collage. When they are lit up they glow all sorts of beautiful colours.
How to make a paper bag lantern
A simple craft that even toddlers can do. Let them make their own paper bag lantern. Perfect for encouraging them to get outside in the dark winter afternoons.
Materials
- White paper bags
- Electric tea lights
- Materials to decorate the lantern such as felt tip pens, coloured tissue paper or paints
Tools
- Glue stick
Instructions
- Set out your chosen materials for your child to decorate the paper bag.
- Give your child a paper bag and let them decorate it as they please.
- Set the bag aside to dry if needed.
- Once dry, place a battery operated tea light inside.
Notes
Such a simple but fun activity for kids. Once they've decorated their lantern it's time to head outside after dusk and see their beautiful lantern all lit up.
Another fun nature craft for kids is this DIY pom pom and stick mobile.
Ideas for using your paper lantern
These lanterns are perfect for young children to carry on a nighttime walk. This is a fantastic thing to do in winter since it becomes dark so early. We love using ours in the garden before bedtime. You could also use them to decorate the garden. It’s also one of my favourite Autumn outdoor activities for kids.
Making a lantern and taking it on a festive walk is a great Outdoor Christmas activities for kids.
Find loads more Indoor winter activities for toddlers here.
Need more ideas for getting young kids outdoors in winter?
- Find loads of great Forest school activities for 2 year olds here.
- If you like this, you’ll love my winter scavenger hunt printable.
- If it’s not quite winter yet, you need my autumn scavenger hunt printable
- or how about a Sound hunt for toddlers and preschoolers
- Find 99 more ideas in my post – 100 things to do outside with kids
- Find more ideas for outdoor activities for toddlers here.
- Find my favourite book for night time exploring with kids – out and about night explorer review
- Find lots of ideas for activities to do in your garden here – 50 things to do outside at home.
Join a Facebook group for sharing inspiration for getting kids outdoors
Want to share ideas with like-minded parents? Join Wildling Explores the free facebook group for parents who love to get their kids outdoors.
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