Ways to Play: Christmas Edition
The holidays don’t have to be busy or elaborate to feel meaningful. These simple, low-prep ideas are easy to start, flexible for different ages, and designed to help families slow down and enjoy being together, no special supplies or planning required.
1. Send Some Holiday Cheer
Work together to create handmade cards or postcards for friends and family near and far. Take a walk or car ride to the post office and send them off together.
2. Play “Pin the Nose on the Snowman”
Draw a snowman (minus the nose), take turns wearing a blindfold, and try taping on a paper carrot. If it’s snowing, try this outdoors with a real snowman.
3. Enjoy a Picnic Dinner by the Christmas Tree
Lay out a cozy blanket, turn off the lights, and eat by the glow of the tree. Share stories about favorite ornaments and holiday memories.
4. Go on a Candy Cane Hunt
Hide candy canes indoors or outdoors and take turns giving simple clues to help each other find them.
5. Play a Holiday Version of “I Spy”
Take turns spotting ornaments on the tree using simple clues until someone guesses the right one.
6. Play Holiday Musical Chairs
Put on festive music, dance around chairs, and let the winner be the DJ for the next round.
7. Go on an Evening Walk or Car Ride to Look at Holiday Lights
Take your time noticing decorations, then share favorites when you get home.
8. Prepare a Family Recipe Together
Make a favorite holiday food and share the stories or memories connected to it. If it’s been a while since you’ve made it, call a loved one for the recipe instead of looking it up.
9. Take a Silly Family Photo or Video
Costumes optional, singing encouraged. Share it with loved ones to spread a little holiday cheer.
10. Look at Old Holiday Photos Together
Talk about traditions, favorite memories, and which ones you might want to bring back this year.
