10 ways to get into the festive spirit with kids this Christmas

by Bec Senyard at theplumbette.com.au

The month of December is one of my favourite times of year because it’s the month of Christmas. While it can be busy with school holidays, end of year events, preparing for presents and organising who will host the family for lunch and dinner, I still love it.

I can’t get enough of Christmas. I love watching my children anticipate the big day when they can open their presents. I’m also mindful of the reason Christmas is celebrated each year – because of the birth of a child. I can’t help but share the excitement of Christmas with my children. It’s almost like being a kid again as I experience Christmas through my children’s eyes.

I have no problem in getting festive with my children. There are a number of ways I foster a festive spirit in our household.  If you need some inspiration, here are 10 ways to get into the festive spirit with kids this Christmas.

1. Buy gifts for those in need

Giving to others is such a privilege and it’s good to remember that not all families can celebrate Christmas because of their circumstances. Getting involved with a charity that ensures these families don’t miss out at Christmas can spark a festive and generous spirit at Christmas. There are many organisations like the Kmart Wishing Tree, Salvation Army and Stuff the Bus that organise the delivery of presents and food hampers to families in need. Last year, I got my girls to go to Target and choose one toy they’d love for Christmas. After they chose their toy, I told them it wasn’t for them, but for a child their age who wouldn’t get any presents, unless we helped out. This activity not only taught my girls the value of giving, but also gave me an idea on what they wanted for Christmas.

2. Play Christmas carols at home

December is the only month Christmas carols can be played. Create your favourite Christmas carols playlist and play on repeat at home.

3. Put the tree up and decorate it together as a family

Decorating the Christmas tree has become a wonderful family tradition. We don’t let the girls go hell for leather decorating the tree. Instead, we get them to choose the decorations and we decorate together.

4. Get your Christmas baking on

Shortbread, gingerbread, Christmas cake and rum balls – baking up a storm certainly helps one get into the festive spirit.

5. Have an advent calendar

Opening an advent calendar is a fun way to count down to Christmas day. We use a wooden house which can be filled with 3 lollies or mini toys so my girls don’t fight over who gets to open the door on what day.

6. Diffuse a holiday scent

I love the smell of Christmas. While I don’t want to be baking everyday cause of the hot weather, diffusing some scents that remind you of Christmas are sure to get you jolly with the kids. Try cinnamon with citrus oils. You can also busy specific Christmas holiday blends that smell like Christmas.

7. Decorate the house with Christmas craft

This allows the kids to be busy and their creations can add Christmas flair to your home.

8. Walk around your local neighbourhood to check out the Christmas lights

Checking out the Christmas lights in your area is definitely a fun way to get into the festive spirit.

9. Head into the City and watch the Christmas Parade

Make an effort to check out the Christmas events in your local town. In Brisbane, we have the Christmas Parade and Pantomime.

We make an afternoon outing by heading to Myer so the kids can ride on the Santa Express. Then we look at the Christmas windows and wait in the Queen Street Mall to watch the parade. We finish the night by watching the Pantomime and the Light Show on City Hall. This has become a yearly tradition for our family and my girls love it.

10. Go to your local Carols by Candlelight

Attending your local Carols by Candlelight service is a wonderful way to experience Christmas together as a family, within your community.

Writing all that has me excited for the Christmas period already!