Since becoming a mother, my idea of “the holidays” has shifted from the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas to include every holiday – big and small. Especially this past year, celebrating days like St. Patrick’s Day has given us things to look forward to, as well as added moments of surprise and joy for my girls. Here are my 6 ways to make every holiday more fun for kids:
- Books
I don’t know why it took me so long to start utilizing our public libraries. I used to be the person who purchased every book I wanted to read. Not only is that impractical from a space perspective, but I found myself returning a large number of books that were either too advanced for my kids or completely uninteresting to them. Now, I reserve library books weekly. It’s the easiest way to keep your bookshelves fresh and holiday-themed.
2. Playdough kits and sensory bins
I hopped on the sensory kit bandwagon in 2020, big time. I was just amazed at how my girls would creatively engage with what I put out. I now create playdough sensory kits for every holiday. I have a box of staples and then spend a few bucks at the dollar store or Target to get some seasonal additions.
3. Activity sheets, printables, and done-for-you activities
I subscribed to the Magic Playbook last fall and have found it to be a darling resource for seasonal and holiday activities for the girls. I also often look to Busy Toddler for inspiration and ideas. Once I found a few things my kids liked – play dough, hide and seek, painting crafts – it became easier to think of seasonal spins on the activities they love.
4. Pajamas
I don’t get themed jammies for every holiday. However, if a holiday or season happens to coincide with either girl needing a new pair, I always scoop up a pair of Burts Bees Baby pajamas. PJs are an easy win!
5. Kid-friendly decorations
To say I love decorating for the holidays is an understatement. When I was a kid I would set up a new monthly thematic scene for my American Girl Dolls – so #extra. My girls love to help me decorate, the only problem is, I’m a little particular about how things look. So I like to give them something for each holiday that they can have full reign over – whether that’s the Christmas tree in their room or something as cheap and easy as $1 window clings.
6. Do something
For every holiday I try to incorporate something that involves others – whether that’s baking pumpkin bread for neighbors at Halloween, a charitable activity like grocery shopping for canned good around Thanksgiving, looking at Christmas lights with family members, or a spontaneous Valentine’s Day brunch, the holidays are always more special when spending it with or giving to others. Our Valentine’s Day brunch this year was Caroline’s idea and I can’t even describe the pride that brought me.
*Bonus: Learn about holidays you don’t normally celebrate
I’m making a concerted effort to expose our kids to other cultures and the holidays celebrated by others. We did a few Lunar New Year crafts and found this book series particularly helpful for explaining the traditions associated with Lunar New Year. I also have to give big kudos to the ladies of Magic Playbook who have created tons of done-for-you crafts and activities for holidays such as Lunar New Year, Passover, Black History Month, International Women’s Day, and more.
1 comment