Learning about Burns Night through play

By Danielle Benner

My name is Danielle, @my_cornishpixies_and_me on Instagram, and I live in Cornwall with my family. I discovered Babipur around eight years ago while searching for cloth nappies and organic clothing suitable for my son, who has sensitive skin. Through Babipur, I was also introduced to their beautiful range of wooden toys and quickly fell in love with them and been hooked ever since!

Crafting has always been a hobby of mine, so being able to create pieces inspired for a company I love has been especially meaningful. It has been such a joy to be part of the Babipur community over the years.

Burns Night Crafts for Kids

Looking for easy, creative ways to celebrate Burns Night with children? Whether you’re planning a cosy craft session at home or need ideas for the classroom, these simple activities are perfect for helping kids explore Scottish culture through hands-on fun.

What is Burns Night?

Burns Night is celebrated in honour of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. It’s a time to enjoy poetry, music, traditions, and of course, a little tartan! For children, it’s a brilliant chance to learn about Scottish culture in a way that feels creative and playful.

When is Burns Night 2026?

Burns Night is held every year on 25th January, and in 2026 it falls on Sunday 25th January - perfect for a weekend of crafts, stories, and celebrations at home or school.

Fun Burns Night Crafts for Kids

A huge thank you to the wonderful Danielle from @my_cornishpixies_and_me for sharing these gorgeous craft ideas with us. They’re perfect for little makers and work just as well in the classroom as they do around the kitchen table.

If you’re looking for Burns Night activities for kids, DIY decorations, or easy Scottish-themed crafts, you’re in the right place.

Needle Felt Burns Night Bunting

A beautiful decoration craft for older children and grown-ups to enjoy together.

You’ll need:

Gluckskafer felt, felting needles and mat, cookie cutters, string.

How to make:

Use a cookie cutter as a guide and needle felt wool inside to create simple shapes. Add strips of wool on top to make your own tartan pattern or a Scottish flag design. Once firm, thread your finished pieces onto string to create festive bunting.

Tartan Paper Chains for Burns Night

A fun, colourful craft that’s great for groups.

You’ll need:

Paper, Medenka crayons, Okonorm watercolour paints, scissors, tape.

How to make:

Draw straight lines on paper to make a tartan pattern, colour some sections with crayons, then paint over the top for a resist effect. Once dry, cut into strips and loop them together with tape to make bright tartan paper chains.

Perfect for decorating classrooms or party spaces.

Burns Night Kilts for Peg Dolls

A gorgeous small-world play activity that kids love.

You’ll need:

Peg dolls (we've used Grapat Nins), Medenka modelling clay.

How to make:

Roll clay into a short strip and wrap it around the doll to make a kilt. Add thin lines of contrasting colours to create a tartan pattern. Finish with a tiny clay hat - a Tam o’ Shanter - and your doll is ready for Burns Night!

Burns Night Print Outs

Taking a little time to craft can be a wonderful way for children to pause and enjoy simple, creative play. Printables are perfect for this, letting kids focus on colouring, decorating, and making something truly their own.

Click here for our free Burns Night activity and colouring sheets.