Can you hear the sleigh bells ringing? We certainly can at Eeny Meeny HQ. As our families celebrate Christmas, our little ones are geared up for the magic of the big day. It’s likely that you have all your gifts and ideas planned for the festive season - whether you Elf on Shelf it, are stacked full with gifts, or keeping things quiet and calm this year. In our homes, we use Christmas Eve as a wonderful day to build up the magic and anticipation for the 25th. With that in mind, here are some fun, exciting activities to keep your little ones engaged, while building on those all-important family connections we are so fond of.
Reading den
Excitement and busyness are top of the list on the 24th, so why not take the opportunity to reconnect with your little ones by setting up a festive reading den? Bring down some sheets, duvets and pillows, and set up a cosy spot near the tree. You might even use some of your fairy lights and dot them around the den. As the day gets exciting and perhaps a little overstimulating, retreat with your little ones into the cosy den and read your favourite books. These could be festive books (collect these from charity shops or search a selection online) or simply some familiar texts that help your little ones stay grounded. If you’re feeling particularly happy in your den, you could even add in some festive snacks to nibble on! You never know - the den may stay up well into the new year!
Christmas lights walk
Nothing says Christmas better than the magic of decorated houses. Whether you partake yourself, there’s plenty of joy to be had walking around your local neighbourhood and looking at how others have chosen to decorate. If you can spot families in the windows celebrating, all the better! Make a fun game of this activity by playing Christmas light bingo. Who has Santa lights? Can you spot a reindeer? Which houses have white lights, colourful lights? Vote for your favourite and perhaps take notes for the year following! There is nothing quite like bundling up in scarves, gloves and coats and exploring how other folks are celebrating. This is sure to become a firm favourite.
Games
Another wonderful way to get that all-important quiet connection is through a family game night. Make use of your den and cosy up with a simple game of cards, or perhaps a more dedicated game like Londji’s offerings. Add in your festive snacks, perhaps candles if you trust your little ones to be safe around them, or fairy lights! Little ones are sure to enjoy the calming, connected moments of strategy and cooperation!
Cosy film night
Finally, Christmas Eve is a wonderful excuse to pop on a festive film - especially if everyone is worn out from the preparations or your long Christmas lights walk! Why not watch The Snowman or Snowdog for little viewers, or something like The Grinch for older children? Add in your cosy Christmas pyjamas and lots of blankets - everyone deserves a bit of downtime!
Merry Merry Christmas!
We hope these simple ideas help you enjoy the run-up to the big day without too much pressure or preparation. We wish you a wonderful holiday and the happiest of New Years!
Emily Hanson
Freelance Writer, Education and Play Specialist
