The festive season takes on a whole new meaning when you start a family! You may reminisce about the fun things you did growing up to celebrate the season: baking special foods, going to exciting parties or getting outside to enjoy the cold, fresh air. Whatever you ended up doing, these traditions made the holiday mean something, and you want to do the same for your own child.
How about starting your own family holiday traditions with your baby? Your little one may not understand what’s going on yet, but they’ll certainly pick up on the cheery atmosphere and enjoy the twinkly lights, comforting smells, delicious tastes and frosty weather that go hand in hand with this festive time of the year. They’ll also love having an annual routine to look forward to. Need some inspiration? Here are some merry and bright winter holiday traditions to start with your baby.
Recreate A Family Recipe
You and your partner are sure to have some tried-and-tested festive family recipes that have been passed down. Your baby won’t be able to help out in the kitchen but they’ll love to watch you bake a batch of cookies – and if they’re on solids, maybe even try a bit!
Go Out To See The Holiday Lights
Everyone, including little babies, can appreciate twinkly lights. Wrap up warm, pop your little one in the stroller or carrier and set out on a family amble to see the best displays in your neighborhood. Your baby will learn how to react based on your own positive reactions, which will help them enjoy the experience even more.
Donate Holiday Gifts
Spread holiday cheer and teach your baby the meaning of the season through your actions. Donate a toy in your baby’s name to a charity like Toys for Tots, One Simple Wish or St. Jude's gift wish list to help a child in need. Show them that for your family, the holidays are all about being kind.
Choose A Family Holiday Book
Start a family holiday tradition by selecting a book that you always read together at this time of year. Reading aloud can strengthen the bonds between you and your baby, soothe and comfort them as well as support their language development and emotional learning.
Throw a New Year’s Eve Party
Now you can’t go out on New Year’s Eve, why not throw your own party? Make some special treats to eat, a range of festive drinks to sip, dress up in your sparkliest outfit, put on some music and have a dance. Don’t worry if no one makes it to midnight!
Celebrate Thanksgiving
There’s so much to be grateful for if you’ve just welcomed your new baby. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to celebrate your new addition with friends and family and give thanks for the joy that babies can bring. Involve your little one in the festivities with some fun PishPosh Baby Thanksgiving craft ideas.
Make Paper Snowflakes
This festive activity is child friendly, only needs paper and scissors and makes the most beautiful, simple decorations. Use a mix of white and coloured tissue paper for a festive twist on this traditional craft. Hang them from the ceiling and stick them on to windows. Show your baby the pretty patterns and get them involved in creating them when they’re older.
Go On A Holiday Hike
Plan a morning or afternoon to go out and appreciate the natural world. Bundle up warm, pack a flask of hot chocolate, get outside into the cold weather and drink in the fresh air. It’s the perfect way to energize the entire family, including your baby, after all that festive food. Plus, everyone will appreciate your warm, cozy house when you get home!
Take A Family Photo Together
The years really do fly by! Babies grow up very quickly and it’s lovely to look back at how much they’ve changed. Capture each festive season by taking an annual family photo. Use the picture in a holiday card or your own special winter album for a nostalgia trip in years to come.
Make Popcorn Garlands
Festive popcorn garlands look beautiful and are oh-so-easy to make. Allow your baby to run their hands through the corn before you cook it (remember not to add any butter or salt!). They’ll also love listening to the pops! When they’re older, it’ll be a great winter holiday tradition to decorate your home. Simply string the popped kernels on thread or floss.
This season, start some family holiday traditions that you and your little one can enjoy for years to come.