Yes, the holidays can be pretty hectic [1]. Between epic meal planning [2], last-minute gift buying, navigating crowded shopping malls, reuniting with family, and battling the increasingly cold weather [3], the holidays don't let up. But if you have kids, the small joys of the season come back into your life and can put things into perspective. In addition to seeing them light up with excitement and wonder over everything, you also get to act like a kid again by doing things like sledding, decorating cookies [4], and tracking Santa's whereabouts. Keep reading for 20 reasons kids make this time of year the absolute best, even if you need an extra glass of eggnog at the end of the night.
Watching Them Open Gifts Brings You Unexplainable Joy
Sure, it can be a little chaotic — and you might even go overboard sometimes — but watching them open the toy they've been dreaming of all year is pretty magical.
You Can Carry On Family Traditions and Make New Ones
All of the things you loved doing as a kid are front and centre during the holidays. Getting to relive those memories, while making new ones with your own family, is so special.
There Are Those Cute (and Sometimes Hilarious) Family Photos
Whether they're screaming on Santa's lap or giggling because you made everyone wear matching sweaters, that card is still going to be the best thing in the world and something you'll all look back on for years to come.
They Hilariously Mess Up Carols
"Deck the halls with . . . wait, what did you just say?! Who taught you that?!" Just go with it (and try not to laugh).
Holiday Pajamas Are Impossibly Cute and Cosy
Is there anything cuter than a little kid in candy cane pajamas? I don't think so. Bonus points if they're matching for the whole family and you get a shot of everyone wearing them on Christmas morning.
You Can Get Out of Awkward Holiday Parties
Want to avoid or dip out early from your partner's holiday party? Your own office party? The kids aren't "feeling well." Oh no!
You Get to Watch Every Sweet, Cheesy, and Nostalgic Holiday Movie
While there's no shame in watching all those Hallmark movies you recorded once the kids are in bed, it's also so much fun to introduce them to your favourite holiday films from when you were a kid. There's nothing like watching them experience something you loved at that age for the first time.
You Get to Watch Them in School Holiday Concerts
They'll probably be dressed as some sort of holiday or Winter thing, and watching them sing and dance will bring you so much joy and laughter (just don't let them see you giggle).
You Get to Play With Toys
Sure, the toys are technically for them, but they're pretty fun for adults, too. Who doesn't love the smell of a brand-new toy?
You Get Some Help Decorating the Tree, Even If They Can't Reach
Most of their ornaments are on the bottom branches, but they've helped! And it probably will turn into a fun tradition to do together.
Because Even in Absolute Chaos . . .
No matter how much you plan, kids and holidays are going to be stressful. It's the way of the world.
This Is the Time of Your Life
You'll look back on these years, and these holiday seasons, and be so grateful you've got your little ones to share the memories with.