Christmas Crafts versus Art

Well, it's the last week of school before the holidays and I'm wondering how many teachers are going to be engaging their students in meaningful art activities this week in order to celebrate the upcoming holidays. I am not a fan of 'crafts' that are done in the kindergarten classroom --- activities that are teacher created and modeled where each child makes the same piece of work as another. I know this type of activity is a popular one this time of year, especially when parents like receiving cutesy things from school. I believe it's more meaningful for children to be engaging in art activities that allow them free range in exploration and expression. This way they can discuss their work with others. Some 'holiday' art you might consider doing this week include:

-putting red, white and green paint at the art easel with sparkles in it
-mixing 1 part paint to 2 parts sugar or salt at the easel (it'll create a sparkly texture when dry)
-having an assorted mix of holidays card fronts, ribbon, and wrapping paper (and other holiday goodies) for children to use in whatever way they wish
-having children stamp with holiday cookie cutters and paint
-providing various colours of clay or playdough available so children can sculpt a gift for their families