Today's mom's have little trouble creating beautiful and festive children's birthday party celebrations but sometimes between our own crazy busy schedules and the quest to throw the this year's most talked about event, we forget to add the little things that make the day especially meaningful.  We think it is important for kids to know how much we love them but equally important for them to understand they are not the center of the universe.  Kids need to learn and develop  a healthy sense of self which includes compassion and caring of others.  What better day to teach this lesson than on the very day they are lavished with gifts.  Teach by example – integrate a “Give back” craft activity into your child's birthday party in addition the the usual birthday fun and party games.  This “Give Back” craft activity would also be a wonderful addition to any classroom holiday party and could even be incorporated into a baby shower.

Our favorite “Give Back” birthday party activity is making easy no sew fleece blankets for local children or seniors in need.  This activity is super simple, appropriate for all ages and sexes and can seamlessly (yes, pun intended) fit into most party themes.   Basically if you can use a scissors and tie a knot you can make this blanket.  All you need is cute fleece fabric, scissors, and a ruler or tape measure. Depending on the age of the children involved you may want to pre-cut 6″ (or 4″) square cut out from each corner.

What to buy

•  1 1/2 yards print fleece

• 1 1/2 yards contrasting solid fleece fabric

For a larger adult size blanket use 2 yards of each fabric.   And we think for small children and toddlers you can get away with using even less fabric especially if the blanket is meant more for “shlepping” around as a security blanket rather than for warmth.

We must admit, fleece can be rather pricey, often running between $11 and $15 per yard.  That is why September is a a perfect time to buy fleece.  Both Hancock Fabrics and Joann are a offering select fleece on sale at up to 70% off!!!  Plus we just checked Amazon and their fleece fabric definitely seems more reasonably priced, especially for a craft project.

Party Hearty!