Making a Christmas nativity is a wonderful way for you and the kids to celebrate this special holiday together. Use materials you have on hand to complete this craft project, then display the nativity scene where it can be enjoyed by all the family.

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The story of the nativity is one you can share with early learners through visual displays, reading material, and hands-on interaction with the figures displayed in the nativity scene.

Making your own nativity helps kids explore the characters - Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus - and the environment - a stable - that are part of the story of this special event.  

Nativity craft

This nativity is easy to make with everyday craft materials and recyclables. This is a great activity to do with the whole family, making it a special part of Christmas celebrations. 

The craft is easy to set up and there's lots of room for creativity, using materials you have on hand.

Exploring the different materials will boost kids creative and fine motor experiences.

Related: Christmas Nativity Activities and Resources

 Interactive Nativity Scenes (affiliate links)

Supplies

• Plastic yogurt bottles
• Fabric for head covers and garments
• Wood peg for child
• Craft eyes (optional) 
• Narrow trim such as washi tape
• Craft sticks
• Raffia or similar
  
• Corrugated cardboard

Cut out fabric as shown for the garments, light blue for Mary and grey for Joseph.

Cut out a fabric circle for each head covering. The size of the circle will depend how the style of the head covering.

Instructions

Mary and Joseph figures

1. Wrap the garment around the bottle and tape at the back to secure. Alternately, spread glue around the neck of the bottle, then press and hold the fabric into the glue.

2. Place the head cover on the top of the bottle and secure with an elastic.

3. Cover the elastic around the head scarf with washi tape or narrow ribbon.

Manger

 

1. Cut craft sticks in half. Glue together as shown in the photo, making an X.

2. Support the legs of each craft stick X in modeling clay to make the frame for the manger.

3. Cut a small rectangle from corrugated cardboard. Curl slightly by wrapping around your finger.

4. Place the cardboard across onto the craft stick frame.

 
5. Cut raffia in small pieces to make straw. Add some straw to the manger and some to the surrounding area.

6. Cover the child with a blanket cut from a piece of fabric.

Display your Christmas nativity to enjoy all season long!

    Christmas Pinterest board