Christmas Day is a day that children look forward to all year long. Not just because of all the presents, but also because there is something magical about Christmas day for a child that is hard to describe. When you think back to your own childhood, you’ll probably remember that feeling very clearly. 

But if we’re not careful, Christmas day could come and go without us making any lasting memories or having any life-changing moments. We’re so busy trying to get through it and be organized that we can forget to take a step back and breathe. But with a little thought and planning, this year could have a huge impact on your children’s hearts and memories – and yours too. Read on for some fabulous ideas on how to make this Christmas extra special.

Give Thoughtful Gifts 

As you read through the rest of our list, you’ll see that Christmas doesn’t have to be all about the gifts. However, if you do want to give your children something, as many people do, make sure it’s something thoughtful and not something you bought because you were running out of time. Start thinking about what you want to give them early so you have time to find and buy something they’ll really like.

Not only will thinking about gifts make it easier to find the perfect one rather than rushing at the last minute, but it will also help you avoid the crowds, and it means you can spread the cost, ensuring you can buy something extra special. 

Make Delicious Food 

For many people, food is just as important as anything else at Christmas. If you can make a good meal, you’ll be a big hit. 

Even if you’re not a great cook, don’t worry. You can ask the kids -and everyone else if you want to – to help get the Christmas meal ready. So, not only will the food be tasty and fun, but it will also be ready on time. If everyone helps, it can also be a great way for everyone to bond and have some fun while making memories. 

For an even more special Christmas, why not put some twists on the traditional dinner ingredients? Have goose instead of turkey or enjoy shredded Brussel sprouts with bacon as a side. Or what about having mashed potatoes instead of roasted ones? Try something different and see what people think, as it could be that you’re creating a brand-new and very popular Christmas tradition. 

Make Time For Carols 

Take the time to remind your children through music what the true purpose of the holiday season is all about. This can be done in a variety of ways, like going caroling in the neighborhood with some friends or simply singing some songs together around the Christmas tree.

These times together might not last very long – two or three songs is probably enough to get everyone in the true Christmas spirit – but because they are so full of warmth and joy and because it’s a chance to be with the ones you love, they are going to form highlights in your children’s memories for years to come. They might even do the same with their children. 

Take A Christmas Light Tour

No matter where in the world you call home, you can be sure that someone in the neighborhood goes all out with their yearly Christmas light show. Put some cocoa in a thermos, bundle up the kids, and take a night to go around and marvel at the wonderful Christmas light displays that people have put up. It could be you did this yourself when you were little. 

This is one of those memories that just sticks. Whether it’s the excitement of going out in the dark, the fun of seeing the lights, or the festive atmosphere that is all around, it is a joyful thing, and it will make this Christmas (and every Christmas) very special indeed. 

Have A Homemade Christmas 

Making things for Christmas has been a family favorite for a long time. Whether you’re making ornaments for the tree, baking treats, or making homemade presents, the best part of homemade Christmas activities is getting together with people of all ages.

You might think the last thing you want to do during the busy Christmas season is sit down and make a lot of ornaments, but holiday crafts are a great way to spend time with your kids or friends and make something meaningful. Decorations don’t have to be hard to make.

Another great thing to do as a family during the holiday season is build a gingerbread house. If you don’t feel like making a gingerbread house from scratch, you can buy a kit or use graham crackers and canned frosting instead of gingerbread. When you use different materials and methods to build your house, it won’t be as big or fancy, but it also won’t be as messy.