Creating Holiday Memories

As I sat with my children at church last Sunday, I was contemplating how fast time had moved. My children are growing so fast, and getting so big. I then began to think the upcoming holidays and all the amazing memories we had created so far. My son, Joey, at 3 (now he’s 16) singing his favorite Christmas carol, which he insisted was “Joey to the World.” My daughters adding their tiny fingerprints to an ornament for their grandmother. Their faces every time they saw what was left under the three.

The holidays aren’t about getting that deal, and shopping until our feet and bank accounts cry. It’s about creating holiday memories with our children. Ones that we can look back upon and smile, and ones we can share with their children.

Here are a few ways to make a memorable holiday season

Give

We always say to our children that it is better to give than to receive. Sometimes they really need to see those words in action. Participate in a holiday food, clothing or toy donation. Let you child pick a name from the Salvation Army Angel Tree. My kids were so amazed that some children wanted shoes or a new jacket, and not a toy. It really made them think about all the blessings in their lives.

Look at lights

Bundle up the kids and take a ride to look at the light displays. Many local newspapers put together lists of holiday light displays around town. To keep the bigger kids interested, create a scavenger hunt (there are several available on Pinterest) of decorations to look for. We usually hit the convenience store for hot cocoa before we head out. My husband puts on Christmas music and we sing along. I just love watching my children’s eyes light up when they see an amazing display.

Bake

My kids just love helping me bake. Make a yummy plate of sugar cookies and let your children help you decorate. Wrap them up and give them to neighbors and teachers. Even the toddler can help decorate, although more frosting will be on their face and hands than on their cookie.

Movie

Grab a mug of cocoa and sit down and watch a movie together. I have the best memories with my parents watching movies all snuggled together on the couch. Sometimes, finding a movie can be quite a trial, especially a movie that the whole family can watch together.

How do you create memories with your children during the Holidays?