Fun for the Family

Holiday activities that foster togetherness and keep your loved ones in the Christmas spirit

As the holiday season approaches, the excitement of buying gifts — and waiting to open them — can overshadow some of the more important moments of the season. This year, reclaim that warm and fuzzy feeling that the crowded mall just cannot provide and try some of these familyfriendly activities. A few of them can be shared with neighbors and close friends as well. ‘tis the season for togetherness!

Gingerbread House Construction

Does anything say the holiday season quite the way gingerbread does? Ring in the month of December (or even earlier; we won’t judge) and let the kids go to town decorating their own gingerbread houses. The fun comes with customization, so don’t forget the colored icing, gumdrops, peppermints and any small confectionary items that are easy to “glue” onto the masterpiece. Round out the evening with festive drinks — some champagne for you, some warm spiced milk with honey for them.

Dinner and a Movie Night

It’s not the holiday season without gobs of holiday movies available for streaming on your Netflix account, right? Take advantage of the mood and add a fun dinner. We particularly love finger foods that can be eaten in front of the television (with your permission, of course). Try small sandwiches with baby vegetables and healthy dips for a quick meal that little hands can grab. Don’t forget the popcorn and holiday cookies. As for the flick choice, we highly recommend a classic for maximum bonding — think “Miracle on 34th Street.”

Oh, Christmas Tree

Yes, the kids love the tree – but do they help you transport it, clear a space for it in the house and get it ready for the big day? This year, have the kids help you with tree-related chores such as moving furniture around, clearing clutter, sorting ornaments and untangling lights. Put them in charge of watering the tree and sweeping or vacuuming the pine needles as well.

Holiday Helping Hands

Make sure your kids realize that other families might not be as fortunate as your own. It’s important to take some time during the season (and all year, really) to give back to the community. Share family experiences such as visiting a shelter, a soup kitchen or a children’s home and see how lending a helping hand makes the season brighter.

‘Make Room for Gifts’ Day

The kids want more toys and “stuff” to clutter the house, right? So what better time to donate the items they’ve outgrown! Take a Saturday and have them clean out the closets, toy boxes and the playroom. Santa needs a place to put that new dollhouse, after all.

Snack Swap

Invite close friends and neighbors over for a snack swap instead of just a cookie swap. It’s a great way to experience fun new recipes and enjoy time together.

‘Snow’ Day

No atter where you live in the U.S., it’s not always possible to celebrate a white Christmas. Not to worry. A “snow” themed day is almost as fun! Serve white foods such as alfredo with pasta, rice, cauliflower and marshmallow treats for dessert. Then, watch a snowy film and bundle up in your best winter gear and drink hot cocoa. All of the fun parts of a blizzard — but your bald tires will still grip the road.