Just found out last night 2 boys ages 5 and 7 are coming to share our Christmas Eve party again this year. I made them pillow cases at the last minute last year. They MAY be bringing their "girl" cousins who are the same ages. I've searched here on the board and did find this one cute older posting, but I don't think it would work for them. http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...t-t206017.html
Any suggestions for something that I could make (while working on Quiltville mystery etc) just so they have some little package to open? (Last year I also made them each a little plate of cookies in animal shapes which they loved, but time consuming)... Thanks for any suggestions!

why not goto the dollar store and get them puzzles for a buck a pop. they will be kept busy and they make great gifts for all ages.

Lynnie has a good idea! If you really want to make something, crayon rolls and a tablet of paper shouldn't take too long and you could probably use some of your fabric scraps. A book bag with a book in it might be quick and appreciated.

Thank you ladies for your suggestions! Today I remembered I had some chalkboard fabric left & may try to make each of them an I Spy placemat with a strip of the chalkboard fabric inserted... still brewing.....

cheap dollar store puzzles aren't made as nice as the good one...
how about a bag of balloons? Maybe some games?

Pillow cases are a fantastic gift. They make great "bags" to put the rest of their loot in so it doesn't get mixed up with other kids stuff.

Little boys usually love match box cars, Little girls play makeup all that can also be gotten at Dollar Tree throw in a box of crayons and a coloring book.

Sounds great to me!

I've been selling balloon balls at bazaars this year. There are free patterns online.

Capes and full skirts are still fun at that age. I made my daughter the tulle skirt that you double up and drop fake flower petals in the fold...very fun and not expensive.