Holiday Traditions Kids Love: Fun Games & Crafts

Holiday magic isn’t just about gifts—it’s about rituals that bring the whole family together. From cozy crafts to kitchen creations, these holiday traditions for kids transform long Canadian winters into warm, memory-filled celebrations. Use this guide as your playbook for games, craft projects, and acts of kindness that spark joy year after year.

Fun Holiday Traditions for Kids to Enjoy

Holiday traditions stick because they’re simple, repeatable moments kids can count on. Whether you’re building gingerbread houses or staging a living-room treasure hunt, these rituals reinforce your family’s unique story and give children something to anticipate every December.

Why Holiday Traditions Matter for Kids and Families

Traditions are the emotional glue of the season. Research from the Institute for Family Studies shows that predictable rituals help children feel secure, connected, and rooted in family culture. Each shared activity builds belonging, strengthens identity, and becomes a story retold for years.

• Bonding: Rituals give everyone a reason to gather and participate.
• Memories: Repeated traditions become core childhood moments.
• Values: Kids absorb family and cultural values through action.

Classic Family Holiday Games to Play Together

Games keep relatives of every age laughing in the same room. Mix classics with holiday twists:

• Charades: Act out carols, winter animals, or seasonal treats.
• Pictionary: Draw gingerbread houses, elves, or favourite gifts.
• Board Games: Choose festive editions or add house rules for seasonal flair.
• Treasure Hunt: Hide clues around the house that lead to a family surprise.

These playful competitions encourage cooperation, communication, and light-hearted storytelling that carries into future gatherings.

Creative Holiday Crafts for Kids

Craft stations double as mindfulness moments during hectic weeks. Keep supplies simple and let kids personalize each project:

• Paper snowflakes taped to windows for instant winter whimsy.
• Salt dough ornaments stamped with names, dates, or tiny handprints.
• Handmade cards for grandparents, teachers, or neighbours.
• DIY wrapping paper decorated with sponge stamps or fingerprints.

While little hands cut, glue, and glitter, you’ll share stories, listen to carols, and build fine-motor skills.

Delicious Holiday Baking Traditions

Turn the kitchen into a classroom with measuring, mixing, and decorating. Try:

• Sugar cookies with coloured icing and festive sprinkles.
• Gingerbread houses covered in candy “roof tiles.”
• Cupcake decorating bars where kids pick toppings.
• Yule log cakes for a showstopping family dessert.

Baking teaches math, patience, and creativity—and leaves your home smelling incredible.

Festive Decorating and DIY Ornaments

Invite kids to transform the house with handmade ornaments and garlands. They’ll beam with pride every time they see their creations on the tree. Try pinecone reindeer, beaded garlands, paper snowflakes, or painted salt dough stars. These keepsakes grow more meaningful each year.

Cozy Family Movie and Story Nights

Designate weekly movie or story nights through December. Rotate who picks the film, pile on blankets, and serve mini snack boards. Pair screen time with storytelling by reading Canadian classics or narrating family holiday memories.

• Holiday movie marathons (think Home Alone, The Polar Express).
• Storytelling evenings with A Christmas Carol or original tales.
• Festive pajama parties complete with matching PJs.

Giving Back: Volunteering and Acts of Kindness

Holiday traditions aren’t just about receiving—they’re about sharing abundance. Show kids the power of kindness by donating toys, participating in food drives, or writing cards for seniors. These simple acts foster empathy and gratitude.

Holiday Countdown Calendars and Wish Lists

Build anticipation with countdown calendars and thoughtful wish lists. Alternate surprises—small gifts, activity cards, or daily acts of kindness. Encourage kids to include experience ideas (ice skating, light tours) alongside toys for a more balanced holiday wish list.

Outdoor and Active Holiday Fun

Fresh air keeps energy levels balanced, even when temperatures drop. Bundle up for nature scavenger hunts, snowman contests, or neighbourhood light walks. These active breaks reset moods and add variety to screen-heavy days.

Capturing Memories: Scrapbooks, Photos, and Time Capsules

Preserve the magic with scrapbooks, family photo shoots, or DIY time capsules. Kids love revisiting past holidays and watching themselves grow. Include ticket stubs, handwritten notes, and mini crafts to reopen in five or ten years.

Making Traditions Your Own

Traditions don’t need to be elaborate or expensive—they simply need to reflect what your family loves. Stay flexible as kids grow, invite them to contribute ideas, and focus on connection over perfection. The best traditions feel easy, joyful, and authentic to your crew.

Looking for More Parenting Resources?

Keep the inspiration coming with these Canadian Parent favourites:

• The Best Free Baby Samples in Canada
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• Understanding Holiday Stress: Why It Happens

Holiday Traditions FAQ