While we can agree that Valentine’s Day stirs up images of chocolate, red satin boxes and flowers, we want to start 2022 off with a create that involves the little ones—and the last thing my grandkids need after the holidays is more sugar! So here’s a fun craft they can all do that gives back to small creatures searching for food this winter. This project takes less than 15 minutes prep time, then overnight in the refrigerator. While you’re at it, make a few extra for friends and neighbors to use in their yards. Tie a little card with a scripture to the treat just to say You are Loved.

Materials

Silicon heart-shaped mold  (We got ours here)

Knox Unflavored Gelatin (In grocery stores on online here)

Colorful twine

Birdseed (any pet store or online here)

Extra wide plastic straws, cut to a length that is just above the top of your mold

Cooking spray

2/3 cup water

Optional: You are Loved tags (download pattern here and here to print on regular paper or cardstock)

How To
  1. Cut three strands of twine and braid together to use as hangers. Make these any length you prefer.

 

  1. In a small saucepan, heat water and one packet of gelatin until dissolved. Turn heat to medium, stirring constantly until liquid simmers. Note: Unflavored gelatin is safe for birds and small animals.

  1. Remove pan from heat and stir in 2 cups birdseed until well mixed. Let it cool just a bit, maybe two or three minutes.

  1. Spray molds with cooking spray and position the cut straw wherever you want the hole for hanging. Spoon the cooled birdseed mixture into the mold, and press it down firmly. You may need to help tiny hands do this task.

 

  1. Refrigerate at least six hours or overnight. Once firm, pop out of the mold and thread the braided hanger through the hole and tie it. Hang them wherever birds or small critters can find them.

 

  1. As suggested, tie a little tag that says You are Loved with a Scripture attached and give away as gifts.