Childhood memories [1] are some of the most cherished moments in a person's life. Even the little things parents do can stick in the minds of their children for a lifetime — filling the house with the sweet aroma of holiday treats [2], cosying up by the fire, and letting the kids pick out their own gifts for other family members. Sometimes it's the smallest things you do for your children that mean the most.
You might not realise what a big deal a moment is to your kids until they're grown. As you see them carrying on the same holiday traditions with their own children [3], you'll quickly understand what an impact you made on their life. These traditions change as the years go on [4], but your impact remains. Keep reading for 12 little things parents do during the holiday season that kids will appreciate for years to come.
Baking Holiday Treats
The taste of homemade treats isn't the only thing the kids will get excited about during the holidays. Holiday baking with the kids is the perfect time to make memories. They'll enjoy and remember the love and laughter you give them during this popular holiday tradition. And if you bake in the morning while they're still in bed, waking up to the smell of your famous cookies is a memory that will stay with them forever.
Gathering Around the Dinner Table
Whether it's a Christmas Day feast or just a regular Wednesday in December, gathering around the dinner table for a warm and cosy meal can't be beat. Put away your phones, play some soft holiday music in the background, and talk and laugh about your days. Priceless family memories are made around the dinner table.
Having Family Movie Nights
Does anything really compare to cosying up on the couch in your pajamas for a holiday movie marathon with the ones you love? Guaranteed your kids will remember these nights more than whatever popular toy they asked for that year.
Reading Holiday Stories
No matter what your family's favourite holiday tale is, reading it together around a fire or buried underneath the covers in bed is incredibly special. Your kids will cherish this time with you.
Shopping For Gifts
Kids get really excited to pick out a gift for someone they love, and shopping together is the perfect time to teach them that the holidays are more about giving than receiving. Strolling through the mall with some hot chocolate and fun conversation is a great way to bond with your little ones for an afternoon.
Having Family Fun Nights
Laugh out loud all night long during a family game night. You can make things extra special by setting up a hot cocoa bar or snack station (or both!).
Taking Cheesy Holiday Photos
They might hate it in the moment, but looking back on your family's holiday photos, your kids will be filled with so many fun and special memories. Like when their ugly holiday sweater looked too big on them or the dog started peeing in the snow right when the photographer said, "Say cheese!"
Making Time to Cuddle
It may seem like you're always hugging and kissing them, but take some extra time to snuggle up during the holiday season. It will always make kids think of the warm and cosy house they grew up in.