I love this time of year. It’s cool outside, it’s getting dark earlier and earlier, the festive lights are up along the streets — such a lovely time of year to get cosy inside and a great time of year to establish rituals in your family.
Rituals are a large part of our nursery throughout the year. I don’t know about you but I’m keen to show that the festive season is not just a commercial holiday, but one for being close family and creating memories together. To show each other we care. To show appreciation.
Rituals are very important for young children and are likely to be those things that they will look back fondly on. You probably have lots of your own, such as Christmas Eve rituals or things you might eat on certain days…..
Here are some different types of rituals you might consider adding in to the mix:
1. Making
There are so many crafty things to make at this time of year. Paper snowflakes, paper chains, making cards for friends are all still popular choices.
2. Baking
For me, there is not much better than getting sticky fingers and mince pies and sausage rolls. Children love to bake so how about trying some Christmas shaped biscuits which will make great gifts too!
3. Feasting
Having the children to help set the table for your special meal, cooking seasonal favourites, and enjoying a meal together will make the festive days memorable.
4. Collecting
We have a ritual of adding a new Christmas decoration to the tree each year. Our tree is a collection of fun memories where we found each one.
5. Donating
Involve children in donating some old toys or clothes for charity.
6. Sending
Make cards together with your children. Stamping, footprints, or gluing together a seasonal picture will delight family and friends.
Rituals in our home
We all lead such busy lives and Christmas is the only time when the nursery is closed and I know everyone is safe at home with their families. This is a time when I can truly relax and enjoy some festive treats.
Here are some of my favourite things to do....
snuggling under the blanket with books
wearing cosy clothing, fluffy socks are a must at Christmastime
making hot chocolate with marshmallows
going for an evening walk to see the festive lights
choosing a Christmas film
listening to music
Go on a nature walk and caputuring the season on my camera.
Christmas Day traditions
For us, this is the main celebration of the festive season. The main focus is on a super tasty lunch with things we love like roasted parsnips and swede and carrot mash and handmade table presents.
The smells in the house are unique to this time of year and it’s so fun to dress up a little and eat Christmas lunch together.
I find this time of year so enjoyable with my family. I love that friends weave in and out of these festivities too, but each year I try to keep it simpler and simpler. And enjoy it more and more.
You can of course create rituals at any time of year, whatever your ritual I hope your kids are treasuring them as much as you do. I can’t wait to hear all about yours.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season
Sally x
