All too often, the dreaded words “I’m bored, I don’t know what to do” signals the start of the holiday season. And this year, there is the added pressure of social distancing and stay-at-home orders to contend with, which makes drawing up a list of fun activities for your kids to do all the more important.
But even the most creative parents can run out of ideas. However, with a little preplanning, you can make time for fun activities that the whole family can join in. And who knows, you may just start a new Christmas tradition for years to come.
Here are some handy hints and ideas to help get your holiday season off to a great start and keep boredom at bay. 
Plan Ahead
Having the correct items to hand is a must. A school supplies bundle of art basics such as crayons, chalk, markers, bead kits, modeling clay, and craft materials is the right call. The list is endless of what you can do to keep little fingers busy with simple activities such as drawing and coloring in providing hours of fun.
Dear Santa
Hand out paper to your kids with the instruction to write a letter to Santa on their wish for Christmas 2020. Have them decorate the letter by laying out art supplies.
Deck the Tree
Arrange for all family members to be involved in this activity. Have each member craft a Christmas decoration for the tree. The more spectacular, the better, and it’s a great way to create lasting memories for years to come.
Bake Off
Get to baking some Christmas cookies. Source an easy online recipe and have your kid’s cut-out and decorate the cookies with sprinkles and icing.
Spice Things Up
Buy a gingerbread house kit or make your own and get everybody involved in assembling and decorating them. Offer prizes for the most creative or lifelike. It’s guaranteed to keep all busy for hours.
Seeking Hidden Treasure
Your kids will love this. It may take a little bit of effort on your part, but it is well worth the time.
Draw a map to some treasure you have hidden in the garden or the house. The treasure itself doesn’t have to be an expensive item. A couple of sweet treats will be appreciated just as much when found.
Movie Magic
If your kids are old enough to use a cell phone or have their own. Get them all involved in making a movie. They can use their toys for props, and you can help edit afterward. It’s creative and will keep them occupied for hours.
Bedroom Makeover
Get the kids involved and let them decorate their rooms for Christmas. String lights and paper ornaments, which they can craft beforehand to add some festive flair.
Dress to Impress
Let your kids loose to plan and help make a themed meal. Get them into the spirit of things by designing menus and table décor. Have everybody dress according to the theme. Light some candles and make it a night of laughter and fun.
Wreath Making
Get the whole family involved in making a DIY Christmas wreath. Take the kids outdoors to gather pine cones and evergreen branches. Attach your greens to a store-bought foam or wire ring and let the decorating and fun begin.
Movie Night
Host a movie night or afternoon. Have each member of the family choose a favorite holiday-themed movie and pair it with hot cocoa and popcorn to make it extra special.
The Gift of Giving
Get into the spirit of giving by going online and shopping for a toy or two for a local toy drive. Let your kids do the picking as, after all, they are the experts.
Also, look at going through their toyboxes together and deciding which toys they are willing to donate to charity. This will brighten your Christmas, and somebody else’s too.
Stamp Old-T-Shirts
Guaranteed fun, which will even pique the interest of teenagers. Get each family member to pick out an old T-Shirt. Purchase fabric paint and any other items such a fabric glitter or sequins that may be required.
A cut bell pepper works well as a flower stamp, while a bath sponge makes great circular shapes with holes. Make it into a contest about who can produce the most creative design or even set a theme such as a best Christmas T-Shirt.
Make It A Time of Magical Memories
The best part of these activities is that your kids get to harness their creativity and add individual touches to a project. Make it a time of bonding with memories to cherish in years to come. It’s an investment in your kids you won’t regret at this busy time of the year.
