New Year’s Crafts for Kids: 29 Fun Ideas
New Year’s Eve is exciting for adults, but what about the kids? They want to celebrate, too, not just wait until midnight. That’s where New Year’s crafts for kids come in.
These activities turn the countdown into something fun, creative, and totally kid-friendly. Your little ones can make party hats, glittery signs, and even their own noisemakers.
Best part? Most crafts use simple supplies you already have at home, like paper plates, old jars, and colorful paper.
No expensive trips to the craft store needed. Plus, crafting together creates memories that last way longer than store-bought decorations.
Ready to make 2026 special? Let’s get started with easy and festive craft ideas your kids will love.
Basic Materials You’ll Need While Making Crafts
Before you start making New Year’s crafts for kids, gather a few simple supplies. Most of these items are already sitting in your home or are easy to find at any store. Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:
| Category | Materials |
|---|---|
| Paper & Basics | Construction paper, cardboard, paper plates, cups |
| Decor Supplies | Glitter, confetti, ribbons, stickers, pom-poms |
| Art Tools | Scissors, glue sticks, tape, paint, crayons, markers |
| Recycled Items | Jars, toilet rolls, bottles, newspaper, egg cartons |
| Extras | Balloons, string, pipe cleaners, craft sticks |
Having everything in one spot makes crafting smoother. Kids can jump right in without waiting around.
Plus, using recycled items like toilet rolls and jars teaches them to reuse rather than throw things away. Stock up on these basics, and you’re ready to create something fun.
New Year’s Crafts for Kids You Can’t Miss
Get ready to make this New Year’s Eve unforgettable with these fun and simple New Year’s crafts for kids. Each idea uses basic supplies you probably already have at home.
1. Paper Plate Clock
This craft helps kids learn about time while getting excited for midnight. They can move the clock hands and practice counting down the hours. It’s educational and festive at the same time.
How to Make It:
- Draw clock numbers 1 through 12 around a paper plate.
- Cut out two clock hands from cardstock and attach them with a brad.
- Let kids decorate with glitter, stickers, or colorful markers.
2. Confetti Popper Cups
A safe and easy popper that kids can use without any danger. They’ll love pulling the balloon and watching confetti fly. It’s much safer than store-bought poppers with loud bangs.
How to Make It:
- Cut the bottom off a paper cup using scissors.
- Stretch a balloon over the open end and secure it.
- Fill the cup with confetti, pull the balloon, and let it pop out.
3. Glittery 2026 Sign
Add some sparkle to your party table with this bold number display. Kids love seeing the new year written out in glitter. Hang it on the wall or use it as a photo prop.
How to Make It:
- Cut out large “2026” numbers from cardboard or poster board.
- Paint each number with bright colors and sprinkle glitter on top.
- Tape them to wooden skewers or string them together to hang.
4. Wishing Wand
This craft is perfect for kids who want to make wishes for the new year. Each wand becomes a little keepsake they can hold during the countdown. It’s a sweet way to talk about hopes and goals.
How to Make It:
- Cut star shapes from shiny or metallic paper.
- Glue each star onto a wooden stick or straw.
- Write a wish or goal on the star with a marker.
5. Countdown Paper Chain
A colorful paper chain makes waiting for midnight more fun. Kids tear off one link each hour or day leading up to the celebration. It builds excitement and keeps them engaged.
How to Make It:
- Cut strips of colorful construction paper and number them.
- Loop each strip into a ring and connect them with glue or tape.
- Hang the chain and remove one link with each countdown moment.
6. Memory Jar
Capture all the happy moments from the past year in one special jar. Kids can write down their favorite memories and read them next New Year’s Eve. It’s a beautiful family tradition to start.
How to Make It:
- Decorate a glass or plastic jar with stickers and labels.
- Write down happy memories on small slips of paper.
- Drop them in the jar and seal it until next year.
7. Fireworks Painting
This art project lets kids create their own fireworks without any noise or danger. The splatter effect looks just like real fireworks in the sky. Plus, it’s messy in the best way.
How to Make It:
- Dip a straw, fork, or old toothbrush into bright paint colors.
- Press or blow the paint onto black construction paper.
- Sprinkle glitter on the wet paint for extra sparkle.
8. Party Hat Craft
Every kid needs a festive hat to wear at midnight. This classic cone hat is easy to make and fun to decorate. Let them go wild with colors and patterns.
How to Make It:
- Roll a piece of cardstock into a cone shape that fits their head.
- Tape the edge securely and trim the bottom if needed.
- Add a pom-pom on top and write “Happy New Year” with glitter glue.
9. Balloon Countdown Wall
Fill balloons with little surprises and pop one every hour. Kids love the suspense of not knowing what’s inside. It keeps them entertained all evening long.
How to Make It:
- Fill balloons with small treats, notes, or confetti before inflating them.
- Label each balloon with a time, such as 6 PM, 7 PM, and so on.
- Tape them to the wall and pop one each hour until midnight.
10. Star Garland
A simple garland adds sparkle to any room. Kids can help cut and string the stars together. Hang it across windows, doorways, or above the snack table.
How to Make It:
- Cut star shapes from foil paper or glitter cardstock.
- Punch a hole in each star with a hole puncher.
- String them together with yarn or ribbon and hang them up.
11. Pom-Pom Noisemakers
These soft shakers are perfect for younger kids who might get scared by loud sounds. They’re colorful, safe, and still make a fun noise. Plus, they’re reusable for future parties.
How to Make It:
- Fill an empty plastic bottle with colorful pom-poms or beads.
- Seal the cap tightly with tape or glue.
- Shake it to make festive sounds during the countdown.
12. Resolution Tree
Help kids think about what they want to do in the new year. Each leaf represents a goal or hope. It’s a great way to start conversations about growth and trying new things.
How to Make It:
- Draw or paint a tree trunk on a large poster board.
- Cut out leaf shapes from green or colorful paper.
- Write resolutions on each leaf and glue them onto the branches.
13. Upcycled Jar Lanterns
Turn old jars into glowing decorations for your celebration. The soft light creates a cozy mood. Kids love painting the jars in their favorite colors.
How to Make It:
- Paint the outside of a clean jar with translucent paint or glass markers.
- Wrap string, ribbon, or glitter tape around the rim.
- Place a battery-operated tealight candle inside for a safe glow.
14. Confetti Bottle
This sensory bottle is calming and beautiful to watch. Kids can shake it and see the glitter slowly settle. It’s perfect for little ones who need a quiet moment during the party.
How to Make It:
- Fill a clear jar with water, clear glue, and glitter.
- Add small beads, sequins, or confetti for extra color.
- Seal the lid tightly and shake to watch the sparkle swirl.
15. Celebration Crown
Make your child feel like royalty on New Year’s Eve. This crown is simple to create and fun to wear. It’s a great photo prop, too.
How to Make It:
- Cut a strip of cardstock long enough to wrap around their head.
- Decorate with stick-on gems, foil paper, or markers.
- Write “Happy New Year” across the front and tape the ends together.
16. Newspaper Party Hats
Reuse old newspapers to make fun and eco-friendly hats. This craft is budget-friendly and surprisingly stylish. Kids can personalize each hat with their own designs.
How to Make It:
- Fold a large sheet of newspaper into a triangle hat shape.
- Secure the edges with tape to keep them together.
- Decorate with markers, crayons, and stick-on foil stars.
17. DIY Photo Booth Props
Create silly props for memorable party photos. Kids will love posing with oversized glasses and funny hats. It’s an instant hit at any celebration.
How to Make It:
- Draw shapes like glasses, mustaches, or lips on cardstock.
- Cut them out carefully with scissors.
- Tape each prop to a wooden stick or straw for holding.
18. Egg Carton Fireworks
Turn recycled egg cartons into colorful 3D fireworks. This craft is great for younger kids who love texture and paint. The finished art looks bright and cheerful.
How to Make It:
- Cut individual cups from an egg carton.
- Paint each cup in bright colors like red, blue, and gold.
- Glue them in clusters onto paper and add glitter on top.
19. Recycled Noisemakers
Make music with items you’d normally throw away. These noisemakers are loud enough to celebrate but won’t hurt little ears. Decorating them is half the fun.
How to Make It:
- Fill empty cardboard tubes with dried rice or beans.
- Tape both ends closed so nothing spills out.
- Wrap the tube with colorful stickers, ribbons, or washi tape.
20. Fizzy Wish Rockets
Kids can make pretend rockets that “launch” their wishes into the sky. These colorful tubes are fun to hold during the countdown. They can even add streamers that flutter like real rocket trails.
How to Make It:
- Decorate a cardboard tube with foil, paint, and star stickers.
- Cut colorful streamers or ribbon, and tape them to the inside of one end.
- Write a wish on the rocket and wave it during the midnight countdown.
21. Wishing Cards
Kids can make handmade cards to give to family or friends. Writing wishes helps them practice kindness and thoughtfulness. These cards become sweet keepsakes.
How to Make It:
- Fold colorful construction paper in half to form a card.
- Draw fireworks, stars, or balloons on the front.
- Write a kind message or wish inside for someone special.
22. Resolution Bookmarks
Kids can make colorful bookmarks with their goals written on them. Every time they read, they’ll see their wishes for the new year. It’s a simple craft that encourages both reading and goal setting.
How to Make It:
- Cut rectangles from cardstock or thick paper.
- Decorate with markers, stickers, and glitter.
- Write a resolution or goal at the top and punch a hole to add ribbon.
23. Glitter Balloon Art
Combine painting with party supplies for a fun art project. The balloon stamps create perfect circles. Kids love the surprise of each print.
How to Make It:
- Dip the bottom of a blown-up balloon into paint.
- Stamp it onto white or colored paper to make circles.
- Sprinkle glitter on the wet paint for a sparkly finish.
24. Party Banner
Hang a cheerful banner to set the party mood. Kids can help write and decorate each flag. It’s a simple way to make the space feel festive.
How to Make It:
- Cut triangle shapes from colorful paper or cardstock.
- Write “Happy New Year” with one or two letters per flag.
- String them together with yarn or ribbon and hang across a wall.
25. Celebration Confetti Frames
Kids can create picture frames filled with confetti and glitter. Use them to display favorite photos from the past year. These frames make great gifts for grandparents or keepsakes for their own rooms.
How to Make It:
- Decorate a cardboard frame with paint and glue.
- Sprinkle confetti and glitter around the edges while the glue is wet.
- Insert a special photo and display it proudly.
26. Recycled Shaker Bottles
Turn empty bottles into fun musical instruments. These shakers are loud and colorful. Decorating them is just as fun as using them.
How to Make It:
- Fill clean plastic bottles with dried beans, beads, or rice.
- Seal the cap tightly with glue or tape.
- Wrap the bottle in colorful foil or tape for decoration.
27. Glitter Handprint Art
Capture your child’s handprint to remember how little they were this year. The glitter makes it extra special. Frame it or save it in a memory box.
How to Make It:
- Paint your child’s hand with glitter paint or regular paint mixed with glitter.
- Press their hand firmly onto paper or cardstock.
- Write “Happy New Year 2026” below the handprint with a marker.
28. Midnight Wishes Lantern
Kids can make glowing paper lanterns to light up the celebration. Each lantern can have a wish or a drawing on it. When lit, they create a warm, magical atmosphere.
How to Make It:
- Fold and cut slits in construction paper, then roll into a cylinder.
- Decorate with markers, stickers, or cut-out star shapes.
- Add a battery-operated tea light inside and watch it glow.
29. Family Time Capsule Box
Preserve memories, photos, and little notes to open next year. Kids love the idea of sending a message to their future selves. It’s a tradition you’ll want to repeat every year.
How to Make It:
- Decorate a shoebox with paint, stickers, or wrapping paper.
- Add drawings, photos, small toys, or written notes inside.
- Seal it with tape and write “Open New Year’s 2026” on the lid.
Final Thoughts
New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be just an adult celebration anymore. With these New Year’s crafts for kids, you can make the whole night fun and memorable for everyone.
From countdown clocks to memory jars, each craft brings your family closer together.
Kids feel included, creative, and excited to welcome 2026. And you get to enjoy quality time without spending a fortune on party supplies. So grab those paper plates, glitter, and glue sticks.
Clear off the kitchen table and let the crafting begin. Your kids will remember these moments for years to come.
Which craft will you try first? Share your creations with us in the comments below. Here’s to a colorful, creative, and happy New Year!
