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Christmas is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a season filled with joy, reflection, and togetherness.
For families with kids, it’s a chance to nurture traditions, spark creativity, and deepen the bonds that make the holidays truly special.
One of the best ways to do this is having an activity plan that turns the countdown to Christmas into a celebration of fun, learning, and togetherness.
An activity plan offers excitement and anticipation to Christmas. The activities are a way to show that it is not just about Christmas morning but creating memories during the season.
Below is a list of 25 thoughtful activities you can engage your kids in. The activities are budget friendly and easy to set up. Countdown begins on 1st of December. Let’s do it!!
Week 1: Getting into the Christmas Spirit
Day 1- Make/ Get a Christmas countdown calendar. Use stickers, envelopes, or mini gift boxes to hold surprises.
Day 2- Create a wish list/ send letters to Santa. Encourage kids to write their wish lists, share their dreams, and reflect on what they’re thankful for.
Day 3- Set up and decorate the Christmas tree. Give stories about ornaments.
Day 4- Bake holiday cookies and decorate them. Let the kids get messy with cookie cutters, icing, and sprinkles while baking classic sugar cookies.
Day 5 – Make homemade Christmas cards for friends and family. Involve the kids in making personalized cards for loved ones.
Day 6- Watch a classic Christmas movie as a family
Day 7- Create themed crafts – paper snowflakes, popsicle stick snowmen, or pinecone ornaments.
Week 2: Spreading Joy
Day 8 – Donate Toys or Clothes to Charity- teach your kids the joy of sharing with others.
Day 9 – Host a Mini Hot Cocoa Bar- Set up toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and sprinkles for a cozy family treat.
Day 10 – Make DIY Ornaments – The homemade treasures can become cherished keepsakes for years to come. You can make salt dough ornaments, handprints or clear fillable baubles.
Day 11 -Pick holiday-themed books and read Christmas stories together. Tales like The Polar Express or How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Day 12 – Christmas Lights Tour -Walk or drive around your neighborhood to admire beautifully decorated homes.
Day 13 – Write Thank-You Notes -Teach gratitude by writing notes to teachers, neighbors, or community helpers.
Day 14 – Build a Gingerbread House- Assemble a store-bought kit or bake gingerbread from scratch for a fun family project.
Week 3: Getting Creative
Day 15 – Create a Christmas Playlist- get a playlist of favorite holiday songs and have a family dance party.
Day 16 – Paint festive designs like reindeer, snowmen, or Christmas trees to decorate the house.
Day 17 – Play holiday-themed games like “Pin the Nose on Rudolph” or Christmas bingo.
Day 18 – Use craft paper, stamps, and ribbons to design unique wrapping paper and tags.
Day 19 – Make Reindeer Food-Mix oats and glitter (eco-friendly options are available) to sprinkle outside for Santa’s reindeer.
Day 20 – Spend the day in festive pajamas doing puzzles, crafts, and baking holiday treats.
Day 21 – Make candy cane popcorn, snowman fruit skewers, or reindeer pretzels for a holiday treat.
Week 4: Christmas Countdown
Day 22 – Go Ice Skating or Take a Winter Walk- Bundle up for an outdoor adventure, whether it’s skating or a snowy nature walk.
Day 23 – Christmas Scavenger Hunt – Hide small gifts, ornaments, or candy canes around the house for a festive treasure hunt.
Day 24 – Set Up for Santa-Prepare cookies, milk, and a note for Santa while tracking his journey online.
Day 25 -Celebrate Christmas Day- Spend the day gifting, sharing meals, and reflecting on the season’s joy.
Let your festive season be filled with joy, creativity and family fun.