The month of December holds many treasured memories shared by families during the holiday season. These memories mostly come out of traditions that are celebrated each and every year. Whether it’s driving out to the country to pick out the Christmas tree. Exchanging Hanukkah Gelt with friends and loved ones. Or assembling the Kwanzaa display to represent the seven symbols. These traditions are the framework of the holiday season. For this year, we challenge parents to create a new tradition to share with their children over the break from school. Below are some ideas to help get you started.
Holiday Movie Night
Gather up some of your favorite snacks and winter drinks, like eggnog, hot cocoa or cider. Curl up in the family room with a fire (or fireplace-scented candle) and watch one of your favorite seasonal movies.
Winter Wonderland Tobogganing
On a calm night, after a heavy snowfall, grab your toboggans and find the closest hill. You can also do this on a day with a light snowfall. Make sure the hill is safe to slide down on. Once everyone is cold and tired, grab some hot cocoa to warm up and rest.
Crafting All the Way
Spend the day, or evening, crafting some new holiday decorations. Set up a multipurpose crafting station with construction paper, paint, glue, glitter, and a variety of crafting supplies. Make sure to set out some holiday snacks and play holiday music to use as inspiration.
Share the Gift of Giving
Visit your local grocery store and pick up some staples, like toilet paper, canned meat, pasta and sauce. Add some gloves, scarves, hats and a small toy as well. Purchase a reusable bag to hold all the nice goodies. Take it to your local food bank and help someone in need have a joyful holiday season.
A Festivus for the Rest of the World
Encourage students to choose a holiday that is celebrated from somewhere around the globe. Research how it is celebrated and why it’s important to that culture. For the full activity, check out our previous blog post here.