The festive season is busy for everyone. For mums with kids still at home, it’s chaotic, to say the least. We aren’t just mothers, we’re playing Santa, chef, event planner, and sometimes, even dad. The lead up to the “big day” on December 25th often gets in the way of time spent with the children, but this defeats the object. Quality family time at Christmas is surely what it’s all about?
You really don’t want to go out. The shops are packed, money’s tight, and besides, it’s really, really cold. But you can still have a good time even if you’re just staying at home.
Here’s how to spend some quality family time at Christmas.
Make your own Christmas presents and cards
Kids these days are often accused of not doing anything that doesn’t involve technology, so why not get them writing some good, old-fashioned Christmas cards? It shows discipline, and the family really love receiving them. You can even go that one step further and make the cards yourselves, to really get those creative juices flowing. Of course, why stop there?
There are so many different gifts you can make as well! People really appreciate something that has love, time and effort poured into it and will cherish something made by the children as opposed to store-bought. Things might not look super professional, but guess what? That’s honestly okay.
Have A Movie Night
Everyone loves films… not many people love the hole in their wallet after taking the entire family to the cinema. This time of year is the perfect time to get all cosy on the sofa, light the fire, and put on some classics. Why not introduce the kids to The Snowman? Or perhaps Home Alone is more your thing. Older children will love Love Actually (okay, maybe mostly just the mums).
Snacks are a big deal, too. You can think outside the box – it doesn’t just need to mean popcorn (although that’s absolutely okay as well). There are loads of unique ideas for movie treats, from Mac & Cheese balls to chicken tikka nuggets; and you can even order in, thanks to the money you’ve saved from not going to the actual movies!
You’ll also find some great ideas for waistline-friendly snacks here if you’re watching the calories.
Bake Christmas Treats
The odd movie is fine, but you don’t want the kids getting square eyes! Using your time with them to learn new skills is ideal, but baking is a really special treat running up to Christmas. Whether you’re having a Christmas party, or you’re literally keeping in the family (who could blame you), this is a time for letting healthy eating slide a little and for all things sugary sweet to rule the day. Christmas cake, gingerbread, fairy cakes or even tree decorations, there is an abundance of things that you can make.
This is a really magical time of year, especially for the kids. It’s not always about going to the best panto or buying them the best gifts. Don’t miss out on the little moments that make it so special. They won’t be young for long!
How do you ensure you have some quality family time at Christmas?
Christmas Crafts and movies are a must for family time
Watching Christmas films and christmas baking always gets me in the festive mood
I think spending time with family at this time of year is very important. Christmas has come so commercialized and I think it’s important to remember the real value of it. This will be the first Christmas since my partner has died so I think it’s even more important to spend time with my son in the lead up to Christmas as this time of year will be especially hard for us this year. Some fantastic ideas on here.
Great post. My kids love Christmas crafts and movie nights
I love watching christmas movies always gets me into the xmas spirit
I love having Movie days in during the run up to Christmas, so cosy and the kids love it.
I want to try and bake some Christmas treats with the children this year. They rally love to bake with mummy but I have little time so need to make sure we do it this Christmas.