Little ones gathered for a daytime craft program, "Little Elves," held at the Ocean County Parks and Recreation office, Toms River.
With construction paper and glue stick in hand, children aged three to five years old created festive paper craft snowmen and elves.
About a dozen children registered in the program, meaning the event was sold out. A table was packed with seats for children, as materials were laid out across the table. Program facilitators walked the participants through the crafts, and also led the group in holiday stories.
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The program was one of several held recently for younger children at county parks locations.
In addition to Little Elves, which was held Dec. 14, children also signed up for Lucky Lady Bug Ornament program. Ladybugs are a sign of good luck, staffers said, and for the event children made a fun ornament with pom-poms, felt and eyes, complete with a hanger. Children also made a "thumb print" greeting card for the holidays.
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"Mom and Me" Gingerbread House construction paired children with parents to make a no-bake gingerbread house decor piece. The edible treats were finished off with royal icing glue, lifesavers, gummi bears, cookie shutters, and more.
At Santa's Workshop, held Dec. 4, children shared a snack, read stories, made holiday crafts and had a picture taken with Santa. Participants also brought an unwrapped toy or non-perishable food item for the Sheriff's food and toy drive.
Call Parks Administration at 1-877-OC PARKS for registration information and current openings/seating availability.
