Families have lots of different Christmas traditions, and these are good things to have. They help the family establish a rhythm and build memories together. As you spend time with your kids this Christmas, realize that more important than the toys will be the experiences. More memorable than the gifts will be the time you share with your kids. And because many parents have some extra days off work around Christmas, it is a great season to spend time with and pour memories into your kids.
Over the last two years, we have found several activities we enjoy with our kids and this Christmas will be no exception. Here are a few you may want to consider:
1. Make s’mores
For years we’ve made s’mores around a campfire on Christmas Eve, and the kids are excited about the time together.
2. Watch a family Christmas movie
We pick out a few kids Christmas movies ranging from Frosty the Snowman, to Boz, to stories about the birth of Jesus.
3. Read the Christmas story
We read the Christmas story each year as a family before we open gifts and remind ourselves that Jesus gave Himself for us. The Gospel Project for Kids Family App has been a real blessing in teaching our kids the gift of Jesus.
4. Attend the Christmas service at church
We look forward to singing, reading Scripture, and reflecting on the Incarnation alongside our church family.
5. Go enjoy the Christmas lights
We drive around and look at lights together. The kids love it.
6. Attend a local event
We try and find a fun Christmas event in the city. ie – we’ve visited the Opryland Hotel for kids events, and attended Christmas plays like The Nutcracker.
7. Serve someone
We try and serve someone else, with our kids, in a tangible way each Christmas season. ie – Serving lunch and decorating cookies on Christmas Day with some elderly folks in an assisted living.
So, build some meaningful memories with your kids this Christmas and establish some traditions they may carry on in their own families. You’ll find it is time well spent.
Eric Geiger is a Vice President at Lifeway, leading the Resources Division. He has authored several books including the bestselling church leadership book, Simple Church.
