The holidays can be a time of chaotic celebrations, but they can also be a time to savor the smaller, cozier rituals.
As your family grows, the holidays are a perfect time to make a conscious effort to start traditions that bring the focus back to family. Whether you have a little one who is celebrating the festivities for the first time or they already have a few holiday seasons under their belt, these ideas can help foster connection, bring calm amongst all the chaos, and celebrate the magic of being together.
- Custom ornaments
For infants, parents can make an ornament of the little one’s handprint or footprints. For older kids, toddlers enjoy being part of the process by choosing paint colors or stickers while older kids can usually decorate all on their own. Each year, your tree becomes a mini visual timeline of memories while also tracking their development as little artists.
- Tiny traditions advent calendar
Ahead of the start of Advent, you can prepare a “tiny traditions” Advent calendar. Each day can be filled with little things like “draw a snowflake” or “watch your favorite holiday movie.” This small tradition can bring a bit of excitement to mundane days and help keep festive spirits high.
- Holiday book box
Buy some seasonal books and wrap them up individually. Once a week (or as often as you would like), your child can unwrap one to read before bed.
- Winddown routine
Take a moment before bed to sit in the living room with all lights except holiday lights (tree lights, menorah, advent candles, etc.) off and the soft sound of relaxing holiday music playing
- Snow/cozy days
Unexpected snow days or prescheduled downtime on weekends is a great opportunity to snuggle up and relax. This is a great time for movie marathons, warm food and drinks, and cozy pajamas. If you don’t want to sit around all day, you can even practice some holiday baking to get in the festive spirit!
- Holiday bedtime routine
The holidays can sometimes be a lot for small bodies. A good way to minimize undue nervous system stress is to come up with consistent bedtime routines. You can ask your little one if they are interested in switching it up a little bit for the holiday season, keeping all of the same aspects that work to wind them down but adding some holiday flare. For example, when it is bath time, perhaps you can add a seasonal bath toy or essential oil. You can also choose to play soft, quiet holiday music as you move through the routine. Finally, you can finish with a favorite seasonal book or unwrap one from the “holiday book box” mentioned above.
- Matching pajamas
If you’d like to get in on the fun, now is the perfect time to dress your little one (or little ones) in matching pajamas. Many stores offer sets for the whole family this time of year.
- Festive mornings
Instead of rushing into the day and getting lost in all the holiday frenzy, it can be nice to create a ritual that encourages starting the holiday off in a way that encourages connection. Some ideas are a family breakfast (perhaps a dish that is a family recipe) or baking a batch of cookies with the kids to enjoy later after lunch or dinner.
- Family walks or drives
Bundling up the little ones and going for a walk around the neighborhood after sunset can be a great way to see the twinkling holiday lights. If it is too cold to be outside for long, you can always hop in the car and drive around as well. For some added coziness (and extra help keeping warm), think about bringing hot cocoa or another warm drink in travel mugs to sip along the way.
- Spirit of giving
It is never too early to get into the spirit of giving! In fact, the holidays can be a great time to introduce your little ones to the idea of spreading some kindness and unprompted empathy. This can be baking holiday treats to share with neighbors or donating toys or too-small clothing.
- Creating custom presents for family
There is a huge variety or crafts that you can help your little one put together to give as gifts to loved ones. An example of this could include the ornaments discussed above, or any other creative idea that comes from the heart.
Not only can you make custom items, but you can also decorate the wrapping paper itself. Using craft paper, you can take stamps, stickers, markers, etc. to decorate it! You can even paint your little one’s hand and press it onto the paper, creating wrapping paper covered in little handprints. This can be a great keepsake for grandparents or other family members.
The holidays are full of moments that become cherished memories for years to come. By creating simple traditions, whether it’s cozy bedtime routines, festive crafts, or family walks, you give your little ones a sense of comfort, connection, and joy.
Thoughtfully designed products can help support these moments, from restful naps in the cradle to quiet, calming cuddles together. With a little intention and the right support, this season can be both magical and manageable, giving your family more time to savor the togetherness that really matters.
