With the Christmas holidays well and truly in sight now and the impending onslaught of excitable children to contend with; why not prepare to channel their energy into some fun and festive arts and crafts.
Draw some inspiration from these Christmassy craft ideas.
Rudolf heads

All you need for these festive heads are some egg boxes, paint and some extra pieces for the eyes etc.
Christmas tree fir cones

Fir cones are extremely versatile and make for a wonderful, natural material to work with. Why not make a little forest of beautifully decorated Christmas trees?
Stained glass nativity scene

Stone snowmen

Pebbles! Yet another arts and crafts staple; natural and free to acquire. Not only is this a festive craft, but it might also bring a touch of zen to proceedings when the kids try to balance them on top of each other. Wishful thinking maybe, but we'll never give up hope!
Cardboard Christmas elves

Get creative with empty cardboard tubes and create a little army of Christmas elves.
Beaded snowflake

These gorgeous beaded creations are sure to delight.
Tinfoil icicles

Simply scrunch up tin foil into a long, thin, tapered shape; paint with some glue and sprinkle on the sparkles!
Christmas card

This small twist on a Christmas card design is really rather effective. Make sure not to scrimp on the sequin decorations!
Jingle bell necklace

Fun and cute for about 5 minutes, before it starts to drive you up the wall. Don't say we didn't warn you!