Creating memorable Christmas traditions doesn’t have to be expensive. The best memories are made when we feel connected to the people we love. Have a look at 10 fun family activities that are sure to make the festive season really special for the children in our lives:
Holiday story time: Gather together and read (or tell!) Christmas stories. You can take turns to share, and perhaps even choose a family favourite to revisit each year. Libraries have an abundance of books to choose from. Children also love hearing family stories, which gives them an important sense of belonging.
Outdoor adventure: Take a family walk outside – enjoy the Christmas lights in your town or stop at a playground to play.
Junk modelling (homemade decorations or Christmas cards): Spend an afternoon creating homemade decorations or Christmas cards using bits and pieces from around the house (or outside) – old cereal boxes, toilet rolls, sticks, leaves, anything and everything. Visit Pinterest for some junk modelling inspo.
Family movie night: Watch a favourite Christmas movie together. Take turns choosing the movie each year (or maybe watch more than one!).
Secret Santa within the family: Instead of buying gifts for everyone, have a Secret Santa gift exchange. These could be homemade gifts or crafts! This can add an element of surprise and anticipation.
Family talent show: Have a Christmas-themed talent show where family members can showcase their talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, or telling jokes.
Christmas charades: If you’ve never played Charades before, it’s loads of fun! All you need are Charades cards (which you can make yourself) listing movies, songs, celebrities, objects and actions. The aim of the game is to act the aforementioned words/phrases and others guess the correct answer. There is usually lots of laughing and friendly competition. Visit FSTD.com for a more detailed explanation.
Christmas notes (12 days of Christmas): Write short, encouraging notes (anonymously, or not) for the 11 days leading up to Christmas Eve (24 December) for a family member, friend, or neighbour. You could do this as a family (sit down together and everyone writes something) and then share your little letters then and there, or deliver to others when convenient.
Christmas karaoke: Everyone has a chance to name their favourite Christmas songs, and the whole family sings together – you could pull the song up on your phone and use as a backtrack or simply wing it; there is sure to be much laughter as everyone tries to remember the words.
Christmas carol service: Whether you are religious or not, carol services are beautifully festive and can be a really exciting and moving Christmas tradition. Most local churches will hold free carol services, with a hot drink and snacks at the end.
The wonderful thing about traditions, is that when your family takes hold of them; they morph into something unique and deeply special – bonding children with their mums, dads, carers and extended family members, and friends.
Is there a time when traditions in your home have helped you bond as a family? Please do share in the Comments below; we would love to hear from you!