Christmas with Kids
The anticipation of a visit from Santa truly makes Christmas the most magical time of year. Especially for those with children! If you’re looking to make this festive season extra special for your little ones, consider adding a few new fun entertainment ideas to your old traditions. From crafting and baking to outdoor activities, here are seven suggestions for celebrating Christmas with kids.
DIY Decorations
Kick off the holiday season by engaging in some do-it-yourself Christmas decorations with your children. Set up a crafting station with coloured paper, glue, scissors, glitter (if you dare!), and other craft supplies. Create paper chains, ornaments, and personalised stockings. Not only does this activity encourage creativity, but it also adds a personal touch to your holiday home decor.
Merry Movie Marathon Magic
Dim the lights and cosy up with some popcorn and a selection of classic Christmas flicks for a movie marathon night featuring festive family favourites like “Elf,” or “Home Alone.” Alternatively, given Australia’s warm weather during the festive season, you may want to consider hosting an outdoor cinema. Transform your backyard into a makeshift movie theatre by setting up a projector and a large screen or simply use a blank wall. Arrange some comfy cushions and blankets for seating, set up a selection of snacks (an ice cream sundae station is always a hit) and let the kids pick their favourite flicks. It’s a unique and entertaining way to enjoy a summer evening outdoors.
That’s the way the Christmas cookies crumble…
Baking and decorating Christmas cookies is a timeless tradition that kids of all ages absolutely adore, even fussy eaters! Choose a simple sugar cookie recipe and let your little ones unleash their creativity with icing, sprinkles, and festive cookie cutters. Save some for Santa and enjoy the rest of the delicious results yourself!
Beach Day Bliss
Australia is renowned for its stunning beaches, and what better way to spend a Summer day than with a beach outing? Pack a picnic, an Esky loaded with icy cold drinks, and beach toys for a day of fun in the sun. Give it a festive feel by crafting “snowmen” out of sand. Don’t forget to bring along all your slip-slop-slap essentials, then settle in under the shade and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
Take your Pic-Nic
Explore your local parks and nature reserves for a relaxing and enjoyable picnic day. Pack a basket with your kids’ favourite snacks, sandwiches (perfect for using post-Xmas lunch leftovers), and refreshing drinks. Bring along a blanket, frisbees, and a kite for some added fun. Enjoy the natural beauty, play games, and take a leisurely stroll through the park’s greenery.
Scavenger Season
Turn a simple walk in nature into an exciting scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for your kids to find, such as different types of leaves, flowers, or specific insects. This adds an element of adventure and helps educate children as they appreciate the beauty of the natural world around them. If you want to keep with the festive theme opt for an indoor version based on discovering Christmas essentials (such as Christmas crackers) hidden inside your home.
Happy Campers
Finally, if a full-scale Christmas day camping trip isn’t feasible, consider setting up a mini-campout right in your backyard. Pitch a tent, roll out the sleeping bags, and spend the evening stargazing. Share stories, make s’mores over a portable bbq, and enjoy the experience of sleeping under the open sky.