5 Simple Holiday Traditions Kids Love and How to Start Them This Year

The holidays are creeping up fast, and if you’re like me, you’re already hearing the “Can we do something fun this year?” chorus from the kids. A little planning now can turn those questions into lasting memories. Below are five easy traditions that need almost no prep, but give big smiles and a sense of together‑ness that lasts long after the lights are taken down.

1. Decorate a Family Countdown Tree

What it is

Instead of a plain advent calendar, grab a small potted tree or a branch in a vase and hang a tiny envelope or paper bag on each branch. Number the bags from 1 to 24 (or 12 if you prefer a shorter countdown). Inside each bag, place a simple activity, a joke, or a small treat.

How to start

• Pick a spot – a kitchen counter or a hallway table works well.
• Gather supplies – a small tree, 24 small bags or envelopes, a marker, and some ribbon or twine.
• Create the list – write one idea per day. My kids love “Make a snowflake with scissors” or “Sing a holiday song together.”

Why kids love it

The surprise of opening a new bag each morning feels like a mini‑gift. It also gives them a reason to look forward to the next day, not just the big holiday.

My tip

When my son turned five, we let him decorate the bags with stickers. He took pride in his “artwork” and begged to open the first bag at breakfast. The excitement was contagious for the whole family.

2. DIY Holiday Story Night

What it is

Pick a night each week to read a holiday story together, but add a twist: the kids help create a simple prop or costume piece for the story.

How to start

• Choose a book – classics like “The Night Before Christmas” or a new picture book.
• Plan a prop – a paper reindeer antler, a cardboard snowman, or a homemade “magic wand.”
• Set the scene – dim the lights, light a candle (or a safe LED), and let the story come alive.

Why kids love it

Kids love to be part of the action. When they wear the antlers, they feel like the story’s hero. It also builds listening skills and a love for reading.

My tip

My daughter once insisted on adding a “secret ingredient” to the story – a sprinkle of cinnamon on the cookies we baked that night. We made it a tradition to add a tiny, edible surprise to the snack that follows the reading.

3. Holiday Music Freeze Dance

What it is

Play a playlist of favorite holiday songs and let the kids dance. When the music stops, everyone freezes. Anyone who moves is “out” for that round, but you can keep them in for extra fun.

How to start

• Create a short playlist – five to ten songs that the whole family knows.
• Explain the rules – dance while the music plays, freeze when it stops.
• Add a reward – a small sticker or a “golden ticket” for the next activity.

Why kids love it

The combination of music and movement burns off extra energy, and the surprise pause makes them giggle. It’s also a great way to sneak in a little exercise before dinner.

My tip

One year we added a “silly pose” rule: when the music stopped, you had to strike a funny pose like “snow angel” or “reindeer leap.” The laughter was priceless, and the photos are still on my fridge.

4. Homemade Gift Wrapping Station

What it is

Set up a small table with wrapping paper, ribbons, stickers, and tags. Let the kids wrap a small present for a neighbor, grandparent, or even a sibling.

How to start

• Gather supplies – a roll of plain paper, some colorful ribbon, a few stickers, and a marker.
• Choose a simple gift – a homemade cookie batch, a small toy, or a drawing.
• Show a quick demo – how to fold the paper and tie a ribbon. Then let them take over.

Why kids love it

Kids feel proud when they see a gift they made being handed over. It also teaches them the joy of giving, not just receiving.

My tip

My son loves “secret messages.” He writes a short note on the tag, like “You are my favorite snowflake.” It turns a simple gift into a heartfelt moment.

5. Nightly Gratitude Light

What it is

Each night, gather around a single candle (or a battery‑operated tealight for safety) and have each family member say one thing they’re grateful for that day.

How to start

• Pick a safe light – a small candle in a sturdy holder or a LED light.
• Set a timer – five minutes is enough.
• Take turns – start with the youngest, work up to the oldest.

Why kids love it

The soft glow creates a calm atmosphere, and saying something kind helps them focus on the good parts of the day. It also builds a habit of gratitude that lasts beyond the holidays.

My tip

When my daughter was four, she thanked the “sparkly light” for keeping the monsters away. We laughed, but it reminded us how simple moments can feel magical to a child.

These five ideas need only a few minutes of planning, a handful of supplies, and a lot of love. The best part? They’re flexible. If one night feels too busy, you can skip it and pick it up later. The goal is to make the season feel special, not stressful.

So grab a pen, a ribbon, or a candle, and start one of these traditions today. Your kids will thank you with giggles, hugs, and maybe a few extra cookies.