Looking for a quick, festive activity to keep your toddler entertained this holiday season? I’ve got you covered! This DIY Christmas tree pegboard is not only fun but also great for fine motor skill development—and the best part? It’s made entirely from stuff you probably already have lying around.
Here’s how I turned an old box into a toddler-approved Christmas tree masterpiece!
What You’ll Need
• An old cardboard box
• Paint or markers (green for the tree and whatever colors you want for ornaments or decorations)
• A push pin, mechanical pencil, or small screwdriver (anything to poke holes with)
• Colored Q-tips, pipe cleaners, or anything your toddler can “post” through the holes
How I Made It
1. Paint (or Draw) the Tree
First, I painted a Christmas tree right on the box. If painting feels like too much effort or mess, markers or crayons will do the trick! Your tree doesn’t need to be Pinterest-perfect—it just needs to look like a tree. Your toddler won’t judge!
2. Make the Holes
Using a push pin, I poked holes where I wanted the “lights” to go. Once the holes were started, I widened them using a mechanical pencil. (Pro tip: A small screwdriver or even a pen would work just as well.)
3. Time to Decorate!
Hand your toddler some colored Q-tips and let them “light up” the tree by sticking the Q-tips through the holes. The result? An adorable, colorful Christmas tree and a happy, busy toddler!
Why This Activity is Awesome
1. Fine Motor Skill Development
Posting Q-tips into the holes helps strengthen those little fingers and improve hand-eye coordination..
2. Holiday Festiveness
What’s more fun than decorating a tree? Letting your toddler make their very own tree, with no risk of shattered ornaments or pulled-down branches. (You’re welcome, real Christmas tree!)
3. Budget-Friendly and Sustainable
This activity uses items you already have at home. Recycle that Amazon box (because I know you have one) instead of tossing it and give it a new life as a fun holiday craft.
This simple, fun craft kept my son entertained for way longer than I expected (win!), and I hope it brings some joy to your holiday season too. If you try it, let me know—I’d love to see your creations!
Happy holidays!
