Christmas this year is going to be exciting. This year my son is four and can grasp the concept of Christmas a little better. Since my son can participate in more activities I wanted to make the holidays memorable. Here is a list of memorable and affordable ideas to do this holiday.
1. Learn about Jesus
This advent calendar has to be my favorite memorable and affordable activity! Just under $5 you have a great way to teach about Christ everyday. I bought this cute advent calendar that teaches you about Christ. I love how each card talks about the different names of Jesus. It comes with a discussion sheet that gives you suggestions for family discussion and activities to do with the cards. You can add the cards to your tree as ornaments or hang them on the wall. I plan to hang mine in the hallway between my kids room. We will choose one everyday to read and discuss before bed.
2. Make cards for your neighbors
Make the holidays memorable for others! It is the simple things that bring smiles to people. All you need is construction paper, crayons, and some creativity! You can use cotton balls to make a cute snowman or draw a sweet Christmas tree on the front of the card. On the inside, you can write thank you for being my neighbor. This is a great time to learn what being a good neighbor looks like. One thing I like to do when making cards is ask my kids what they would like to say to their neighbor and write exactly what they say. Prepare to laugh!
3.Make Memorable and Affordable Ornaments
Clearly, I love making things! I am not perfect when it comes to crafts. I love the quality time I get to have with my babies. Buy some pipe cleaners, ribbons, and beads from the dollar tree. Add the beads to the pipe cleaner then shape it into a design you would like. This Dollar Tree activity is perfect for your little ones’ motor skills and creativity. You can add these ornaments to your tree or give as presents to family or friends.
4. Make Hand-Print Ornaments
Your kids are growing faster than you can blink. The holidays are a great time to capture their tiny hands and feet. I used this recipe to make my ornaments in 2021. Unfortunately, my ornaments broke but I plan to try again. You can also try using Shrinky Dink sheets and make cute ornaments that way!
5. Go to see the lights!
Christmas is not complete unless I see some lights. Find a local light show or drive around some neighborhoods. Some light shows are very affordable and super fun. I love going to drive through light shows because your girl is going to stay warm!
6. Bake Cookies
I’ve learned my kids can care less whether mommy can bake them from scratch or just pop them in the oven. My children just want to participate in something. Have your children help you set the oven or place the cookies on the sheet. Go the extra mile with icing and sprinkles!
7. Watch a Movie
Cookies go best with a snuggle blanket and a movie! Every year I have to watch “the elf” and “The Grinch” with Jim Carrey. My Kids have fallen in love with the Grinch. Leave in the comments what is a must-see movie.
8. Buy Matching Pajamas
Every store even some grocery stores will have matching pajamas. Don’t forget the thrift stores if you are a momma on a budget like me. My daughter loves getting dressed and she was super happy to match her brother. Dress up, take pictures, and have a slumber party.
9. Give to the homeless
The first thing that probably popped into your head was volunteering at a homeless shelter. Here are a few other ways to give back. Ride with blankets and snacks in your car so you are ready when you see someone in need. There are plenty of places that have boxes for toy, clothes, or diaper donations. This is a perfect time to start teaching your children why we give to others. Have them go through their toys and learn how they are blessed to give.
10. Decorate the Tree
After making all these ornaments you need someplace to put them. I love putting on some Christmas music and decorating the tree as a family. When the kids are having a hard time placing the ornament on the tree, I let them show me where they want to place the ornament.
11. Make Hot Chocolate
My kids love hot chocolate but this year let’s make it even better. Let them add their own marshmallows. Tip: put a certain amount of marshmallows that you don’t want them to exceed in the small cup. Therefore, they can feel independent and they are not trying to fight you to put the whole bag of marshmallows in their hot chocolate. Another fun idea is reading Hot Cocoa Calm with your hot chocolate in hand. This is a great way to introduce a breathing technique to calm down.
If you like giving books for gifts check out my favorite books for toddlers in Mommy’s Favorites!
12. Mail a Letter to the Community Helper
I know it is typically “mail a letter to Santa.” However, this year let us teach our children to thank the people they do see. December is the last month of the year. Let us thank the mail carrier, amazon, and ups included, who brought all your packages year-round. The pediatrician who made sure your child was well. That one grocery clerk who remembers you every time you walk in. You might not have their mailing address so the cards to them personally.
