Build a holiday Magna-Tile Christmas Tree with lights and decorations that kids can decorate for a fun STEM activity that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and play!
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If you’re looking for a magical and hands-on holiday activity, this Magna-Tile Christmas Tree is sure to spark creativity and Christmas excitement. Kids get to design and decorate their very own light-up tree using simple materials you probably already have at home. It’s engaging, colorful, and full of opportunities for imaginative play.
This activity encourages problem-solving, fine-motor skills, and open-ended building as children experiment, decorate, and create a festive display they’ll love showing off.
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I loved watching my little guy thoughtfully decide where to place each magnet, just like when he decorates our real Christmas tree.
Best Loved Christmas Tree Children’s Books
Books about Christmas trees are full of heart, hope, and meaningful messages, making them the perfect companion to this hands-on holiday activity.
- Why Christmas Trees Aren’t Perfect by Richard H. Schneider: This beautiful tale follows a little tree named Small Pine, who wants to grow up straight and perfect. However, as woodland animals seek help, Small Pine gives of himself—losing “perfection” but gaining something better: a loving heart. A touching reminder that kindness matters more than looking perfect.
- The Little Fir Tree by Margaret Wise Brown: A small fir tree longs to be chosen and loved, and its wish comes true when a little boy brings joy and light into its life. This gentle classic celebrates belonging, hope, and the simple magic found in giving a lonely tree a home.
- A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree by Colleen Monroe: An old pine tree worries that he’s grown too tall to be picked as a Christmas tree. Fortunately, the woodland animals he has helped over the years come together to show him how appreciated he truly is. A heartwarming story that highlights friendship, gratitude, and the spirit of Christmas.
Magna-Tile Christmas Tree Decorating Activity
Supplies
- Magna-Tiles or magnetic building tiles (green tiles work great, but any colors are fine)
- We have Magna Tiles and Picasso Tiles
- Optional: Electronic fairy lights (battery-operated mini lights) (This light set worked great!)
- Magnetic accessories
- Mini magnets (We used this magnet set because it came with so many colors!)
- Magnet-backed pom-poms
- Magnet gems
- Magnet buttons
- (Any magnet-safe decorations your kids enjoy!)
- Optional: Small star magnets
- Optional: A tray or magnetic board to build on
How to Make a Magna-Tile Christmas Tree
Watch out short tutorial to see how to build the Christmas trees.
1. Build the Christmas Tree Base
Start by arranging green Magna-Tiles into a triangle or pyramid shape. You can make a small tree or a tall one, kids love experimenting with different sizes. You can even challenge them to build the trees on their own.
2. Add the Fairy Lights
Carefully weave or drape the fairy lights through the Christmas trees. Keep the battery pack on the outside where kids can easily turn it on and off. The light shining through the translucent tiles adds a magical stained-glass effect adding to the magic of this activity.
3. Decorate the Tree
Let kids add magnets anywhere they like. Encourage them to try patterns, color themes, or random decorations—anything works!
4. Keep the Play Going
Kids can rebuild the tree in new shapes, switch out decorations, or create a whole holiday scene around it.
More Fun Ideas for Christmas
- Christmas Tree 10 Frame Math Mats
- 12 Days of Christmas Free Printable
- Christmas Tree Free Printable Activities for Kids