Top 3 gift ideas for the kids this Christmas

Christmas is just around the corner, which means it's time to start wrapping the presents to put under the tree!
If you're a bit stuck for ideas what to give the kids this Christmas, why not embark on some DIY work and get creative with your hands?

Children love to enjoy the outdoors, so making something for the backyard is sure to go down a hit with the young ones - keeping them occupied and having fun for hours in the process.

With two weekends up your sleeve until Santa's arrival, the following DIY projects will give you a few ideas for some last-minute gifts.

Cubby house

A cubby house is a staple in most Aussie backyards, so if you're kids don't already have one, why not build your own?

Choose an area that is well-shaded so that in the warmer months your children will be protected from the elements. It is also a good idea to make sure there is lots of space around the structure for the kids to extend their play area outdoors.

You can be as elaborate or as simple as you like with a cubby - include doors, windows and a veranda to make it more house-like or keep it open plan with just the basic structures.

If your cubby is elevated off the ground, add a ladder for the children to reach the entrance, and for an extra creative touch, add a slide from a separate entrance!

Sandpit

Sandpits are a great asset in any backyard - providing hours of enjoyment for the kids over the years.

You can either build your own sandbox that sits above the ground or the more traditional sunken version.

Sandboxes are perfect if you don't have anywhere to build a pit or the ground is difficult to excavate. The best thing about this DIY project is how easy it is! All you need is wood, a saw, an electric sander, hammer, nails and glue - most of which you can find at your local Kennards Hire store.

Complete this Christmas gift with a spade and bucket, as well as some other fun sand toys!

Dollhouse

A dollhouse is the perfect gift for any little girl - and an easy enough structure to make with a bit of know-how. 

Unless you consider yourself a bit of an architect, you may need to follow a plan to help you with dimensions and the layout.

Keep it one storey, or add another floor - or floors - to give more playing space.

If you have the time, paint each room and make sure to include some furniture so your daughter has somewhere to put her dolls!