Toddler-Friendly Christmas Traditions to Start Now
Toddler-Friendly Christmas Traditions to Start Now
by Jasmine Reed
The Christmas holiday is swiftly approaching and we couldn’t be more excited! Hallmark holiday movies have probably already taken over at least one of your television screens, pretty lights illuminate your neighborhoods and the kiddos are getting anxious with each new gift added under the tree! There’s so much excitement leading up to Christmas Day and a huge part of that are traditions.
Whether they’ve been passed down through various generations, or something you’ve recently decided to start in your own family, they’re a great way to get and keep everyone in the holiday spirit. We’ve curated a list of some traditions some of you may already have, but will be a great way to get the little ones in on some of the fun, too! Who knows? Maybe they’ll continue them, light years from now within their own families.
Yearly/Special Ornaments- This is such a neat gift and tradition to start. It’s exciting for the entire family but especially your little one. From their first Christmas on, you’re able to cherish each one with it’s own, unique ornament to commemorate it. We rave about Etsy a lot, but truly, it’s a great source for a one of a kind gift like this. There are tons of exclusive options for you to choose from, to match the personality and tastes of your favorite tiny human(s).
Hot Cocoa and Light-Seeing – Let’s be real. Whether it’s homemade or picked up in the Starbucks drive through, hot cocoa is still a treat. Just don’t forget the marshmallows! This is a nice excuse to get out of the house for a little while and just cruise. Bundle up the kiddos and load everyone in the car for one of the most exciting rides, yet. An added bonus is that you don’t even have to drive that far! You can literally do it, in the convenience of your neighborhood. We promise you’ll love every minute of their wide-eyed expressions and squeals of excitement!
Adopt an Angel/Angel Tree- This is a great way to start your little one off early, remembering those among them that aren’t as fortunate. Many churches and such already do this every year. Get your toddler involved by letting them pick the angel and toy for the blessed recipient of you all’s generosity and thoughtfulness.
Matching PJs- These are always fun to see photos of on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. You can make this as silly or simple as you want. A lot of stores have even made it easier, and sell some that go along with the theme of an entire family. Check out Target for some ideas!
Movie Night(s)- This can be just a Christmas Eve thing or a weekly thing, leading up to Christmas. Pick a movie and time for everyone to snuggle up on the couch and watch some of your favorite Christmas classics. If you’re looking for days or movies to choose from, check out FreeForm’s 25 Days of Christmas movie schedule here.
Fireside Christmas Story- This is similar to the Angel Tree option, in that it helps to show your little one how to cherish the true meaning of Christmas. What better way to do that, than sitting fireside, cozied up, and reading or listening to the glorious story of Jesus’ birth.
Ginger Bread House- Of course we had to end with a classic. This is a great way to get the entire family involved. It may get a little messy, but hey! At least you’ll have fun doing it. Stores like Wal-Mart and such have kits to help you get started.
Like we said, some of these things your family is probably already doing. But, hopefully you were able to find at least one for you all to begin incorporating this year. We hope all of our Vinehouse family and friends have a wonderful Christmas holiday!