The holiday season is filled with activities that create special memories for your family. Children love the experience of holiday celebrations and look forward to sharing them in the New Year. Children can also look to the New Year as a time to make some changes and set some goals.
Now is a good time to get your child involved in some activities that will document those memories and make plans for a fresh New Year. Here are some suggestions that are fun and educational:
- Make a scrapbook. The holidays are filled with photo opportunities. A simple notebook, some glue and art materials can transform your child’s holiday memories into a documented keepsake. They can add stories, photo descriptions, drawings, etc.
- Write a holiday story. Encourage your child to pick something about the holiday and write about it. Their interpretation might be far different from yours. It will be an interesting story to read and share with them during future holiday seasons.
- Send thank you notes. Children love getting gifts. Sending a thank you note is a great way for your child to reach out to the one that was thoughtful enough to think of them and select a gift they thought was special. This is a life-long practice that you can teach your child.
- Plan for the New Year. Have your child create some goals for themselves for the New Year. Suggest that they think about goals for their mind and body. Maybe trying a new sport, participating in art or music, doing a better job keeping their things organized.
Very often, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season takes away from the true meaning and the memories that are made. While you are packing away the decorations, finding a place for all the new stuff and getting everyone ready to start the New Year, take some time to create some new traditions with your child.