For many of us, Christmas brings a chance to spend more time with family or take a break from school. We usually have an adventure points system for school breaks, but I wanted to come up with some additional Christmas ideas. Here are some fun activities that can spark creativity, imagination, and movement for kids during the holiday season.
I already have a long list of over 100 activities to keep kids entertained, but it’s nice to add some that capture the holiday spirit. If your kids are home for the Christmas break and you need a fun family activity, or if they’re getting bored and want something hands-on, these ideas could help.
Our family emphasizes gratitude and giving during Christmas, so you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly activities that align with this. There’s something magical about this time of year, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy Christmas activities with a cup of healthy hot cocoa.
The activities listed aren’t sorted by age, so you might find some are better suited for certain age groups. Older kids may not find sensory bins exciting, and the youngest ones might not be ready for activities like snowboarding. Feel free to choose what suits your family best.
Playdough is a favorite among young children, and making your own is simple. I like using a playdough recipe that’s gluten-free, great for kids with allergies. Adding natural red or green coloring makes it festive, and a bit of peppermint extract can transform it into candy cane playdough!
Sensory play with bins of rice or beans is great for toddlers and preschoolers. Even slightly older kids enjoy it. These activities encourage creativity and free play and give little ones a chance to practice fine motor skills using tools like tweezers and spoons.
Craft projects can be as simple or crafty as you want. Whether using paper plates and popsicle sticks or drawing and painting together, here are a few holiday crafts everyone in the family can enjoy.
Science experiments are another fun option. Some books offer projects kids can mostly do on their own without needing special supplies. If you prefer convenience, KiwiCo offers subscription boxes with science and art projects suitable for everyone from babies to teens.
For younger kids not ready for paintbrushes, try edible finger paint with spirulina or spinach for green and beets for red. Kids have fun painting with it, and you don’t have to worry if they taste some.
A traditional candy-covered gingerbread house isn’t my style, but a healthier version can be just as fun. I use a paleo gingerbread recipe with dried fruit, nuts, and dark chocolate for decorations. You can even decorate with healthier frosting.
Making and gifting baked treats like molasses cookies, coconut macaroons, and chewy chocolate cookies can be a lovely gesture. It’s an excellent way for kids to bake and share with neighbors or family.
Coordinating outfits and taking a family photo is a yearly tradition for us. Kids can make homemade Christmas cards using construction paper, paints, and markers for a personal touch, which can be mailed or hand-delivered.
Christmas activities can be tasty too. I started making homemade marshmallows that are loved by my kids. Green matcha marshmallows or peppermint-flavored ones are festive and healthy.
Playing Christmas music is a wonderful backdrop while kids do chores, cook, or enjoy fun projects. Try karaoke or dancing to favorite Christmas songs for some lively movement.
An Advent calendar can help countdown to Christmas with daily prompts for kind acts. This takes the focus off receiving and encourages doing good for others.
Make a list of Christmas movies to enjoy together with popcorn and snacks. We love watching “It’s a Wonderful Life” every year and use blue light glasses for healthier screen time.
Each year I create a photo book filled with the kids’ favorite memories from the last year. They always look forward to it. Kids can create their own keepsake photo books with holiday memories or favorite family recipes.
Hot cocoa, especially with homemade marshmallows, is a must in our house. Making hot chocolate to enjoy while wrapping gifts or reading Christmas books is a cozy tradition.
Kids can also make their snow globes using small figures and mason jars, or create personalized ornaments with clay or salt dough – perfect for gifting grandparents or decorating with cookie-cutter shapes.
Making garlands from popcorn, cranberries, or dried oranges is a fun way to decorate the house while listening to Christmas music or stories.
Window decorations, like lights and removable holiday stickers, brighten up the home and spread holiday cheer to passers-by.
Fairy gardens can be adapted into holiday-themed scenes with little gnome figures. Kids can use natural materials like rocks, moss, and twigs for these mini landscapes.
Our family started sewing projects early on, making customized burlap wreaths and different seasonal shapes like gingerbread men or Christmas trees.
Visiting a Christmas tree farm to pick out a tree is another beloved activity. Whether real or artificial, decorating the tree with holiday music and hot cocoa makes it special.
In the days before or after Christmas when things are less hectic, we declutter and donate items we no longer need to those who could benefit.
We also have a “surprise Santa” tradition, where we secretly give gifts and essentials to a family in need. Though we never meet them, it’s a rewarding experience for the kids.
Christmas caroling, whether around the neighborhood or at local facilities, is a delightful way to spread joy through music.
Kids can make thoughtful Christmas gifts like lotion bars or lip scrubs as presents for friends and family.
Our family has a unique tradition of preparing a Sicilian feast of seven fishes on Christmas Eve. It’s a fun experience that gets everyone involved in the planning and cooking.
Being outdoors is part of our holiday fun. Building snowmen, viewing light displays, ice skating, and sledding are great ways to enjoy the winter weather.
A neighborhood scavenger hunt with a list or bingo card of holiday sights like Christmas lights or snowmen adds excitement to outdoor adventures.
These are just a few of the many ways to make Christmas special. If you have any unique traditions or activities during the holidays, I’d love to hear about them!
