How to Occupy Children in the Lead up to Christmas

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Children may not only be counting the weeks and days until Christmas, but the very minutes. Of course, you want them to enjoy the entire season, not just Christmas day. A variety of activities can keep the children occupied until the special day.
Crafts
Children love to create. You will find many ideas for arts and crafts in books and on websites such as Enchanted Learning and Martha Stewart. They can make easy Christmas tree ornaments from paper and string. They can make popcorn garland or wreaths. Look to find interesting and age-appropriate activities.
Cooking
As an adult, you may remember the savory smells of Christmas that came from your mother’s kitchen every year. Cooking and baking for this season can be a wonderful activity to share with your little ones. If you have any special family recipes, then this can be the perfect time to share them. Your children will be excited when everyone enjoys what they made. You can even have them help you on the big day.
Volunteering
Christmas is about giving to others. You can teach your children about this in a hands-on way by volunteering with them during Christmas. This can take many forms. You can visit a nursing home or senior center with them to bring smiles to those who may not have anyone else. Volunteer to plant seeds or flowers in community areas. Look for local volunteering opportunities in your area at websites such as Volunteer Match. You can do something specifically related to Christmas such as singing carols for people who are ill or lonely.
Miscellaneous activities
There are many other fun activities that are related to Christmas that the children can do during the countdown. Your children may love to put on a play about Christmas. It can be the story of Jesus or anything else related to Christmas. They can also write poems or stories about Christmas.
Family time
Christmas is a lot about family, and you should encourage your children to spend time with family members during the season. If they are off from school, you may send them to stay with their grandparents for a few days. Make a special effort to visit with others and help them form important bonds with their relatives.
You can make Christmas an entire season of fun for your little ones. Try the above activities to keep them busy while they are waiting for December 25th.