Evening Lantern Hikes for Kids (Homemade Lantern Tutorial Included)
There is something magical about being outside after dark. As we head into a dreaded season for many (myself included), I've found that embracing activities we normally wouldn't be able to do are making the shorter days more exciting! In the summer, it's stays light too late to enjoy the enchantment of being out in the dark, lighting our own way with lanterns and flashlights.
Instead of wishing this season away, we are embracing it for the new and different opportunities it allows.
We are embracing the chill with warm drinks, like homemade hot chocolate or warm cider.
We are embracing the tendency toward seasonal affective disorder with purposeful morning sunlight.
We are embracing the snow with all the delightful snow activities like fort and snow painting, ice balls and frozen hair-dos.
And we are embracing the short days with evening lantern hikes, which our kids are absolutely thrilled about! Their lanterns were easy and fun to make, using many items you may already have on hand. They love this open-ended and customized craft because they were able to choose their own colors and designs. We will use their lanterns all season long for hikes in the dark as well as for porch and indoor decor. These lanterns also make beautiful gifts and are an excellent craft idea for a holiday party! There are many variations on homemade kids lanterns but we found this was the simplest way to go and they turned out lovely.
Supplies needed (You may even have much of this on hand already!):
How to Make a Homemade Lantern
1. Unscrew the top of your mason jar and set aside.
2. Cover the outside glass on the mason jar with a layer of Mod Podge.
3. Glue on colored tissue paper. You can make designs, rip the paper into smaller pieces, etc.
4. Cover the tissue paper with a thin layer of Mod Podge and leave to dry for a few hours.
5. Insert the firefly lights and attach the jar handles from your Lantern Kit.’
Enjoy your hike!
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