You know them by the captivating sparks and signature popping sound…firecrackers. Most kids are fascinated by these little – or big – 4th of July essentials. Since they aren’t exactly safe for your nieces and nephews to play with though, the next best thing is making pretend ones. Celebrations.com writer Karen Perkins has ideas for firecracker crafts that are simple, fun, and will help build up the anticipation as kids wait to see the real things.

Sparkling Firecracker Handprints
Flash and sparkle make these handprints-turned-firecracker explosions a unique July 4th craft. If you have kids of different ages, mix their handprints to create a more detailed project.

Supplies
-Gold paper – look for glitter scrapbook paper or metallic tissue paper
-Pencil
-Scissors
-Craft glue
-Gold glitter
-Black construction paper

Steps
1. Trace child’s hand 8-10 times onto gold paper, and cut out.
2. Put glue on fingertips, and apply gold glitter. You can also outline each handprint with glue and sprinkle on glitter to add more sparkle.
3. Arrange the handprints in a circular pattern.
4. Glue them together with the palms overlapping. Then glue onto a sheet of black construction paper.

Firecracker Cupcake Toppers
If you can keep your nieces and nephews from sneaking bites as they work, you will have a set of sweet, cute, and super easy cupcake toppers for your 4th of July picnic.

Supplies
-Candles with red stripes (or blue stripes or a solid color)
-Gold glitter pom-poms
-Craft glue
-Red Lifesaver candies
-Frosted cupcakes

Steps
1. Put a dot of glue on the bottom of a candle.
2. Stick on one gold pom-pom.
3. Place a Lifesaver in the center of each cupcake.
4. Insert the candle into the center of the Lifesaver wick end first.

Visit Celebrations.com for more 4th of July ideas!

Photo: Felixco, Inc.
Published: July 2, 2012