One Christmas ornament that we enjoy making is candy canes. I first learned of this simple beaded candy cane from my friend Margaret when we were doing a winter Vacation Bible School (VBS) together. And since then, I’ve adapted this activity with my kids. Here is the story of the candy cane with its rich symbolisms to remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.

Look at the Candy Cane

What do you see?

Stripes that are red

Like the blood shed for me

White is for my Savior

Who’s sinless and pure!

“J” is for Jesus, My Lord, that’s for sure!

Turn it around

And a staff you will see

Jesus my shepherd

Was born for Me!

Materials:

Red Chenille Stem (or pipe cleaners)
Beads (Red and white)
Strings for hanging

Instructions:

1. Cut pipe cleaner into half.
2. String alternating red and white beads onto pipe cleaner or use RRW (red red white) pattern
3. Bend beaded pipe cleaner into candy cane.
4. Tie string onto candy cane for hanging.

As an extension, your kids might like these children’s books:

J is for Jesus, The Sweetest Story Ever Told by Crystal Bowman

The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg
(We’ve read the older edition)

I got the candy cane poem from Ministry to Children.