How to Make Magical Reindeer Food with Your Little One
As Christmas Eve approaches, adding a sprinkle of magic can make the festive season even more enchanting. Crafting reindeer food is a simple, delightful activity for you and your child to enjoy together, bringing excitement as they prepare for Santa’s arrival. While creating a wildlife-friendly treat for the animals in your garden. Here’s how to make wildlife-friendly reindeer food that’s kind to nature and full of festive fun!
What Is Reindeer Food?
Reindeer food is a wholesome mixture designed to guide Santa’s reindeer to your home on Christmas Eve. It’s sprinkled outdoors to shimmer under the moonlight and provide a tasty treat for Rudolph and his friends.
Best of all, it’s quick, easy, and fun to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 50g porridge oats (a reindeer staple! A healthy, natural ingredient for birds and animals)
- 25g birdseed (optional but makes it great source of energy for wildlife)
- A pinch of dried fruit or chopped nuts (optional, and safe for most garden animals)
- Coloured sugar sprinkles (as a glitter alternative—festive and safe when it dissolves in rain)
Feel free to get creative by adding a pinch of cinnamon for a festive touch.
What Makes Reindeer Food Animal-Safe?
Traditional recipes often include glitter or non-edible ingredients, which can be harmful to wildlife. This version uses entirely safe and natural materials, ensuring it’s enjoyable for birds and animals while still magical for your little one.
How to Make Reindeer Food
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Set Up Your Workspace
Lay out your ingredients and tools on a clean surface. To minimise mess, cover the area with newspaper or a wipe-clean mat. Gather a mixing bowl, spoon, and small bags or jars for packaging. -
Measure Out the Ingredients
- Weigh 50g of oats and pour them into a mixing bowl.
- Add 25g of birdseed for a wildlife-friendly option.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of edible glitter or sugar sprinkles to give the food a magical sparkle.
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Mix It All Together
Let your little one take charge of mixing the ingredients. It’s a wonderful opportunity to talk about Santa and his reindeer while encouraging your child’s imagination. -
Package the Reindeer Food
Spoon the mixture into small paper bags or biodegradable pouches. Add festive ribbons or stickers to make the packaging feel magical. -
Add a Rhyme or Label
Attach a note to the package with a charming rhyme. Here’s an idea:
"Sprinkle this outside tonight,
The moon will make it sparkle bright.
As Santa’s reindeer fly and roam,
This will guide them to your home."
Or Include a wildlife-friendly rhyme, such as:
"Sprinkle this food on the ground tonight,
For Santa’s reindeer on their magical flight.
It’s safe for birds and animals too,
A special treat just for them and you!"
Sprinkling the Reindeer Food
On Christmas Eve, take your little one outside to sprinkle the reindeer food on the lawn or garden. The oats and birdseed will be a welcome treat for birds, squirrels, and other small animals. Avoid sprinkling it on pavements or driveways, as it’s best left in areas where wildlife can easily access it.
Making Magical Memories
Creating reindeer food is more than just an activity—it’s a way to capture the magic of Christmas and share a special moment with your child. Sprinkle it outside on Christmas Eve, and watch your little one’s eyes light up as they imagine Rudolph and his friends stopping by for a midnight snack.
Wishing you a Christmas filled with joy, wonder, and a sprinkle of magic! ✨
