Simple Christmas Gift Idea for Kids: Gingerbread Scented Play Dough Kits

As Christmas approaches, I know the desire to create special memories and spread a little joy is stronger than ever. But as parents, we also want to keep things simple and avoid getting lost in the holiday hustle. That’s why I love this homemade Gingerbread Scented Play Dough kit! It’s the perfect way to share a thoughtful, fun gift with kids in your neighborhood, church group, or child’s classroom, all while focusing on the joy and simplicity of the season.

This gingerbread play dough is a huge hit, and not just with young kids—older kids and adults enjoy it too! The scent is festive, and the hands-on play encourages creativity and quality time, making it a beautiful way to share a holiday gift that’s more about connection than cost.

Supplies You’ll Need

Creating these kits is easy, and you can even involve your kids in the process! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Plastic Buckets with Lids: Look for small, sealable containers. These help the dough stay fresh and make it easy for little hands to open and close. I really love these!

• Mini Bag of Play Items: Small items like googly eyes, sequins, pipe cleaner pieces, or mini candy canes are perfect additions to a small baggie inside of your tubs! Try your local dollar store or craft store for budget-friendly options. Hobby Lobby is a great place to grab small trinkets when their Christmas stuff is 60% off! I like to use these bags!

• Gingerbread Cookie Cutters: These are a fun, festive addition! I found some for $1 at Target and attached them with ribbon to the bucket handles!

• Festive Stickers or Tags: Personalize the lid of each kit with a Christmas sticker or tag.

I’ve put together a free downloadable tag for you to use if you would like. Just print on Avery Labels (size 22830) or on cardstock and tie to each bucket! Grab the file in my FREEBIE LIBRARY!

Gingerbread Scented Play Dough Recipe

The recipe for this dough is simple and makes enough for multiple buckets! To keep it easy for you, I’ve set up a quick email signup below. Just enter your email, and I’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox! Make sure to take a picture and tag me if you make it—I’d love to see the joy it brings!

A Christmas Reminder

While putting together these little buckets, let’s remember the true spirit of Christmas. The holiday season can feel like a whirlwind, but even the simplest gifts can carry the love and joy of Christ to others. By focusing on small acts of kindness, we can spread love without the stress, making room in our hearts for what truly matters. This season, let’s celebrate the gift of Jesus, and may that be reflected in every little gift we give.

A Prayer for us

Heavenly Father, Thank You for the joy of Christmas and the opportunity to share Your love with others. Help us to keep our hearts focused on Your gift to us, and remind us that the simplest things can carry Your light. May each gift we give reflect the love You have shown us, and may this season be a time of peace, joy, and simplicity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.