Christmas is a fun time to spend time with the kids and and partake in fun festive activities.
Having said this, Christmas can feel overwhelming. There's so much to do and lots going on. Therefore I try not to overdo it and I pick just a few festive activities to do with my boys. Most of festive activities I choose are easy. It's quick to read a Christmas themed book, relaxing to watch a movie and fun to drink hot chocolate after a winter walk.
Have a quick read of my list for inspiration of Christmas activities to do with your children.
1.) Make paper snowflakes.
These are great for older kids (from around aged 7, although competent younger children can also have a go.) Check out this video on YouTube - how to make a paper snowflake.
2.) Make Christmas decorations.
These could be as easy as making paper chains, or what about salt dough decorations? Mix flour, salt, and water to create a dough. Kids can roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to make stars and other Christmas shapes. Then bake their creations, wait for them to cool and then deocorate with paints.
Other decoration ideas include painting pine cones, toilet roll Santas and button Christmas trees. Read our article on 10 easy Christmas decorations for kids for these and more ideas. Making decorations can be a wonderful bonding activity and allows kids to see their work displayed proudly around the home.
3.) Make reindeer food.
It's easy to make your own reindeer food. Use things like oats, pumpkin seeds, bird seed and dried cranberries. It's important not to put glitter in your reindeer food as this can be damaging to any wildlife who might eat it. This activity combines fun with a touch of nature education.
4.) Visit Christmas lights.
Either have a walk around your neighborhood and see the Christmas lights your neighbors have put up, or drive to the best Christmas lights near you. This can be a magical experience and a great way to enjoy the holiday spirit.
5. Make a Christmas Card
Once completed, give it to a family member or friend. Handmade cards add a personal touch and are a lovely way for kids to express their creativity and share holiday cheer.
6. Watch a Christmas Movie
There’s nothing quite like snuggling up with a festive film. Pick your family favorites and enjoy a cozy movie night together. Some of our family favourite holiday movies include Polar Express, Elf, Home Alone, A Charlie Brown Christmas, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Arthur Christmas.
7. Write a Letter to Santa
Tell Santa one or two things you'd really like to open on Christmas morning in a letter. This classic tradition is exciting for kids and helps them practice their writing skills.
Here's how to do it: Get some nice pens and paper ready. Draft a quick list before you start. Help your child write a greeting such as "Dear Santa" and ask politely for one or two items from their list. If you're in the UK, you can send a letter via Royal Mail and if you send it by 30th November, Santa will write back. Find out more .
8. Christmas Coloring
You can print out Christmas coloring sheets online or buy a Christmas coloring book. Coloring is a relaxing activity that children of all ages can enjoy.
9. Dance to Christmas Songs
Turn up the holiday tunes and have a dance party. It's a fun way to burn off some energy and get into the festive spirit.
10. Drink Hot Chocolate
It's fun to warm up with hot chocolate after a festive walk. You can even get creative with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and candy canes.
11. Bake Christmas Cookies
Check out this recipe for super easy Christmas cookies that kids can make. If you don't like baking, why not buy some cookies and then decorate them instead? Baking and decorating cookies can be a delightful activity, and the results are delicious!
12. Sing Christmas Songs or Carols
Singing together can be a joyous way to celebrate the season. You can even go caroling in your neighborhood if you’re feeling adventurous.
13. Go Ice Skating
Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity that’s both fun and challenging. Many towns set up temporary rinks during the holiday season.
14. Try a Mince Pie
One of my sons loves mince pies, the other son hates them, but you don't know unless you try one! Trying traditional holiday foods can be a fun family activity.
15. Decorate Your Home
Get everyone involved in decorating your home for the holidays. From the tree to the mantel, it’s a great way to spread cheer.
16. Make a Gingerbread House
Building and decorating a gingerbread house can be a fun and creative project. Plus, it’s a tasty one!
17. Do a Christmas Jigsaw
I love having a jigsaw with lots of pieces laid out on the table. Family members can do parts of the jigsaw whenever they're free. It's a good way to get older kids off their screens.
18. Read a Christmas Book
There are lots of great Christmas books geared at younger children that make great bedtime stories. Sharing a festive tale is a lovely way to end the day. How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr Seuss is a Christmas classic to share with your children. Other favorites include The Night Before Christmas and How to Catch an Elf.
19. Read the Nativity Story
For those who celebrate, reading the Nativity story is a meaningful way to remember the reason for the season.
20. Have a Festive Family Game Night
You can play festive versions of games such as Christmas charades! It’s a wonderful way to bond and have fun as a family.
21. Christmas Quiz
It's fun to have a Christmas quiz with the rest of the family. Find some fun Christmas quizzes online. Test your holiday knowledge and learn new facts.
22. Hang Mistletoe
Hanging mistletoe is a charming tradition. It’s fun to surprise loved ones with a kiss under the mistletoe.
23. Visit Santa
Many places have Santa visits where kids can tell him their Christmas wishes. It’s a magical experience for young children.
24. Donate Food
Many community groups collect food to give out to people who need it during the festive period. Find out what's happening in your community and donate. Teaching kids about giving is a valuable lesson.
25.) Track Santa on Christmas Eve.
There are some great apps which track Santa's journey on Christmas Eve. Find out when he'll be coming to you. It adds extra excitement to the night before Christmas.
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