There’s something so magical about getting to spend the holiday with family. Whether you keep it to immediate family or go big with the extended family over throughout the holidays, there’s so much connection to create with loved ones. However, the holiday season tends to fly by in a festive blur, and you may end up—or your kids may end up—feeling like you didn’t truly get to spend any quality time together.
Quality time is one of the most important gifts you can give your children and your family. Lucky for you, the holidays provide many activities and events to get your family connected. To help keep your holiday season from flying by, we listed a few holiday traditions to start with your family—check them out!
Host a Baking Extravaganza
No matter what holiday you celebrate, baking is a surefire way to get your family together and laughing. Decorate Christmas cookies for a day, or make some babka loaves for Hanukkah, then keep a few for yourself and bring the rest to local fire and police stations. Whatever you choose, baking provides an excellent way to spend quality time with your kids.
Have a Holiday Movie Marathon
Chances are we all have at least one movie we consider a holiday classic. Have all the members in your family write down their favorite holiday film, and then watch one each weekend leading up your chosen holiday. If you want to make it extra special, try and watch at least one of the same movies each year. It’ll be something the whole family can look forward to!
Admire the Christmas Lights
One of the best parts about this time of year are all the decorations strewn about. Head to a city and admire the lights everywhere, or just take a drive around the neighborhood to look at all the decorations at night together. Grab some hot chocolate, and take in the beauty together as a family. This is also an excellent way to wind down excitable children for bed time.
Try out an Icelandic Tradition
Typically done on Christmas Eve, this tradition can actually work no matter what holiday you celebrate! Give each family member a book, and spend the rest of the evening reading. Though you won’t talk, reading together is an excellent way to spend quality time with one another. It could lead to wonderful conversation and connection later on, as well.
Play in the Snow
Last on our list deals with getting outside and taking advantage of the weather. Cold weather brings a lot of different activities, so spend time with your family doing those things. Whether you build snowmen, go sledding, have a snowball fight, go skiing, or make snow angels, you can enjoy the fresh air and each other’s company in so many ways.
Try out some of these fun holiday traditions with your family, and watch your relationships grow!
