Now that Thanksgiving is over and the countdown to Christmas is officially underway, it’s time to fine-tune your list-making skills. This is especially important if you are a parent. The holidays can add even more stress to an already busy life juggling kids, career and a home. Still, no parent wants the season to slip by without making lasting memories with their children.
Participating in Christmas-themed activities with your kids is a great way to bring the holiday to life and underscore the true reason for the season.
The following are just a few of the many fun and meaningful activities you can place on your holiday to-do list. Gather the kids and show them that Christmas is about more than just presents, candy and cookies.
Volunteer: Most children love to help, so why not put their energy and willingness to good use by having them take part in community service this holiday season? Call around to local food shelters or nursing homes and volunteer to donate your time and talent. Or, check with local churches to find a family who could use some help this time of year. The Salvation Army also offers families the chance to sign-up to ring bells at various kettle collection sites around town. Remember, volunteering is one of the best ways to teach kids that the world doesn’t revolve around them.
Church Christmas Pageants: Does your child want to take part in your church’s Christmas pageant? Plays and pageants are ideal vehicles to teach your kids about the true meaning of Christmas. The hands-on learning experience is also filled with pomp, circumstance and plenty of fun.
Christmas Caroling: This holiday tradition is not reserved exclusively for “American Idol” wannabes. Just because you think your voice stinks, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get out there and have a good time. Hosting or participating in a caroling party can be an amazing way to bond as a family. Most children love to sing, and if they don’t, they will at least enjoy the camaraderie of the event. What’s more, you only need a handful of people to create a caroling success. Simply invite family and friends to meet at your house or at a nursing home, hand out song booklets with the words to well-known Christmas carols, and then go door-to-door singing your hearts out. When you are done, you can head home and share some hot chocolate, eggnog and holiday cookies.
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