Girl Power! Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays are about giving and spending time with family and friends. The holidays are also a good time to show the ones we love how much we appreciate and value them. Here are a few ways you can create a special gift for a family member or friend.

A poem. That's right. Flex your poetry skills and create a one-of-a-kind rhyme and add it to a homemade card. All you need is construction paper and markers. If you want to be super creative you can use scissors and glue. Decorate your cards with holiday symbols, trees, stars, presents, candles, or create your own personal design.

Decorated paper weights.Head outside and gather rocks, medium and small ones are perfect. Now you will need poster paint. With a pretty painted layer, the rocks can now be used as paperweights or decorations for your mom's or dad's desk. Make a Santa Claus, paint a heart, or better yet, you can make a smiley face. Now your someone special will always think of you when look at this gift.

Coupons.Here is a cool idea. Use construction paper to create coupons to send to your mom, dad, brother, sister, caregiver, or friends such as:

• This coupon is good for breakfast in bed.
• This coupon is good for a hug.
• This coupon is good for a scoop of ice cream.
• This coupon entitles you to pass on doing the dishes.

Make a tape of your friend's favorite songs. This will be a winner; your friend will be able to hear their favorite tunes any time. Better yet, you could tape a bunch of love songs and give it to your parents. We know they will treasure this gift.

Create a set of memory cards.Here is a gift idea for your siblings or younger cousins. That's right. Draw snowmen, stars, trees, hearts, or even a rainbow on cards. Remember you need to have two of the same card for memory. After you have created your set of cards, tie a ribbon around them. This will be a treat for them during the holidays, especially when everyone is waiting for dinner.

Bookmarks.Does someone in your family love reading? Well how about making bookmarks for them. Be creative. You may want to design bookmarks for the types of books they read. You can make one for mysteries, romance, adventure, or drama.

Paper Chains.Decorate your room or home with paper chains. Using construction paper and a stapler, you can create chains for the things or people you are thankful for. Not only will this be a decoration, but your family members will also enjoy it.

Design a holiday painting. Take a bunch of old sponges and cut them in the shape of trees, bells, candles, or stars. Dip the sponges into the paint and press them onto paper. Be sure to have your family or friends display your creation during the holidays.