The holiday season is magical but, let’s face it, it can also be hectic. Between shopping, cooking, and endless to-do lists, finding time to bond with your kids can feel impossible. But the truth is, it’s those small, meaningful moments that create lasting memories. If you’re a busy mom looking to make the most of this holiday season, here are a few easy and fun ways to spend quality time with your kids—without adding stress to your plate.
Pick a night, grab some blankets, and cozy up for a holiday classic. Let your kids choose the movie (even if it’s the one you’ve watched a million times), and make it special with some popcorn or hot cocoa. Bonus points if everyone wears matching holiday pajamas!
👉 Pro Tip: Our holiday pajamas collection makes for adorable photos and comfy movie nights.
No time to bake from scratch? No problem! Pick up some pre-made cookie dough or gingerbread kits and let the kids go wild decorating. It’s a fun way to get creative, and you can sneak in a little quality time while sharing laughs over messy sprinkles and frosting disasters.
Set aside an afternoon for simple DIY crafts like making ornaments, holiday cards, or paper snowflakes. It’s an inexpensive and low-pressure way to spend time together while encouraging their creativity. You’ll end up with keepsakes that you can cherish for years to come.
Take a stroll through your neighborhood to admire the holiday lights. It’s a free and relaxing way to slow down and enjoy the season together. Plus, it’s a great way to get some fresh air and burn off that extra holiday energy!
If you're in Philly be sure to check out the McNaughton's Christmas Walk-Through in Cherry Hill, NJ!
Pull out the board games or card decks and let the competition begin! Game nights are a great way to laugh, bond, and unplug from distractions. Make it holiday-themed by adding candy canes or small prizes for the winners.
For younger kids, sitting down to write letters to Santa can be a sweet way to bond. Older kids can use this time to write thank-you notes for gifts they’ve already received or notes to family members expressing gratitude.
One morning, let everyone stay in their PJs and make a fun holiday breakfast together. Pancakes shaped like snowmen, reindeer toast, or simple cinnamon rolls can turn a typical morning into a special memory.
Take a moment to snuggle up and read your favorite holiday books. Reading together not only builds connection but also slows down the fast-paced holiday season.
Check out our blog of 5 Must-Read Holiday Books for Kids!
Your kids won’t remember how perfect the tree looked or if every gift was wrapped on time. They’ll remember the laughs, the hugs, and the moments you spent just being together. So, give yourself grace this season and focus on the little things.
Being a busy mom during the holidays is no easy task, but even small efforts to connect with your kids can mean the world to them. Whether it’s a quick craft or an evening of movies and cocoa, the memories you create will last a lifetime.
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Amber Bowie
Author