16 Ways To Make Your Home More Kid-Friendly During Holiday Break

The holidays are a wonderful time for families to gather, but with kids at home, it’s important to make your space kid-friendly. Whether you’re hosting family or simply spending quiet days indoors, there are several simple changes that can make a big difference. By incorporating a few fun, practical ideas, you can create a warm and welcoming environment for the kids to enjoy.

This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Create a Safe Play Area for Kids

Designating a space for children to play freely is essential during the holiday break. A safe play area can keep them entertained while preventing messes and accidents. Consider adding soft mats or foam tiles to create a comfortable space where kids can enjoy toys or craft activities. You can also keep their favorite games and books nearby to encourage independent play. This simple change can keep both kids and parents happy by providing a dedicated space for play without disrupting the rest of the house.

A play area can be as simple as a corner of a living room or a separate room, depending on your available space. You could also add some storage bins to keep toys organized and out of sight when not in use. A safe space allows children to engage in creative activities without constant adult supervision. The more fun and engaging the space is, the longer kids will stay occupied. It’s a great way to make the holiday break more enjoyable for the entire family.

Kid-Friendly Holiday Decorations

Decorating for the holidays is a fun tradition, but it’s important to make your decorations kid-friendly. Choose decorations that are safe for children and won’t easily break or cause injury. Consider using plastic ornaments instead of glass ones and avoid sharp edges on any holiday décor. You can also create a holiday crafts station where kids can make their own ornaments, which will keep them entertained and engaged. These festive touches will help your home feel festive without worrying about safety hazards.

When decorating, keep in mind that kids may be curious and want to touch everything. Therefore, it’s a good idea to place any delicate or dangerous decorations out of reach. Adding kid-friendly lights, such as string lights, can brighten up the space while being safe for curious hands. You can also get creative by letting your kids participate in decorating the tree or making their own festive crafts. This adds an extra layer of fun and excitement to the holiday season.

Designate a Holiday Movie Zone

Creating a cozy area to watch holiday movies can make your home more kid-friendly during the break. Set up a spot with comfy pillows and blankets where kids can gather to watch their favorite holiday films. This can become a fun family tradition that the kids look forward to each year. Include a variety of age-appropriate movies so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Having a dedicated movie area will keep kids entertained and give adults some quiet time.

A designated movie zone can be simple – just clear some space on the floor and set up a screen where kids can sit together comfortably. You can also set up a mini snack station with holiday-themed treats like popcorn or hot chocolate to make it even more festive. This space should be easily accessible, allowing kids to pick out their favorite films and settle in for a cozy movie night. It also provides an opportunity to enjoy some quality family time. A movie zone can easily be a highlight of the holiday season.

Set Up a Kid-Friendly Snack Station

During the holiday break, kids are always looking for something to snack on. Setting up a designated snack station can help keep them satisfied while also allowing them to feel independent. Include a variety of healthy snacks like fruits, crackers, and cheese, along with a few fun treats like holiday cookies. Make the station accessible to kids, so they can help themselves without needing assistance. This setup not only keeps kids fed but also teaches them about self-sufficiency.

A snack station can be placed on a low counter or table where kids can reach it easily. It’s a good idea to label each section, so they know where to find specific snacks, which helps them stay organized. You can even get creative by including holiday-themed snack containers or jars. By giving kids the freedom to choose their snacks, you can avoid constant interruptions while they’re playing. It’s a small addition that makes the holiday break run more smoothly.

Create a Holiday Craft Corner

Setting up a craft corner can be a great way to keep kids entertained and allow them to express their creativity. Provide supplies like construction paper, markers, stickers, and glue, along with some holiday-themed craft ideas. This will not only keep kids busy but also allow them to create their own holiday decorations. Having a designated space for crafting helps contain the mess and gives children a place to focus on their project. A craft corner can be a fun way for kids to stay occupied while being productive.

The best part about a craft corner is that it can be as simple or elaborate as you like. You can add an art table, a few chairs, and storage for craft materials. Make sure the supplies are safe and age-appropriate, so there are no safety concerns. Allow the kids to display their creations around the house or even give them as gifts to family members. This activity provides a way for children to connect with the season and take pride in their work.

Introduce Holiday-Themed Books

Holiday books can be a great way to get kids excited about the season and keep them entertained. Set up a small reading nook where kids can curl up with their favorite holiday stories. You can choose from classic holiday books or introduce new titles that feature festive adventures. Reading books together can help create lasting memories and can also be a great way to wind down before bedtime. It’s a cozy and educational way to enjoy the holiday break.

To make it more engaging, you can also encourage kids to act out parts of the story or use props to make the reading more interactive. If you don’t have a lot of space, consider rotating books every few days to keep the selection fresh. Create a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting, a comfortable chair, and blankets to make the reading nook inviting. Holiday books are not only a great way to pass the time, but they also help children develop their literacy skills. It’s an easy way to make the holiday season both fun and educational.

Kid-Safe Holiday Baking Station

Baking is a fun activity that kids can enjoy, especially during the holiday break. Set up a kid-safe baking station with all the ingredients pre-measured and easy to access. Use simple recipes for cookies or cupcakes that are fun for kids to decorate. This activity keeps them entertained while also allowing them to help out in the kitchen. It’s a wonderful way to involve them in the holiday traditions while also creating lasting memories.

A baking station doesn’t need to be complex. You can prepare the countertop with bowls, measuring spoons, and utensils that are safe for kids to handle. Let them mix the ingredients, roll out dough, and add sprinkles or frosting to create their masterpieces. To avoid a mess, use parchment paper or place mats on the counters. This way, kids can express their creativity while enjoying the process.

Child-Friendly Holiday Music Playlist

Setting the mood with a holiday music playlist is a fun and easy way to get kids in the festive spirit. Choose songs that are upbeat, fun, and easy for kids to sing along with. Include classics like Jingle Bells or Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer to keep them engaged. Playing holiday music throughout the day can help create a joyful atmosphere in your home. You can even add in some fun holiday games, like singing competitions or a dance party, to keep the kids active.

To make it more interactive, ask kids to help pick out their favorite songs or make their own playlist. Music has the ability to lift spirits, and having a holiday playlist can help everyone feel the excitement of the season. It’s a great way to keep kids entertained and create moments of family fun. Plus, you can switch up the playlist depending on the time of day, such as a calm morning session or an energetic afternoon jam.

Create a Holiday Advent Calendar

An advent calendar is a great way to count down the days until the holiday, while keeping kids engaged throughout December. Fill the calendar with small treats or notes that lead up to a special surprise. This activity helps kids stay excited about the holiday while giving them something to look forward to every day. Whether it’s a store-bought calendar or a homemade one, this tradition is both fun and rewarding. Kids can get involved in making or decorating their own calendar as a creative holiday project.

An advent calendar can be customized to fit your family’s needs, from chocolate treats to little activities like drawing or crafting. This gift keeps on giving, allowing kids to open a new door each day leading up to Christmas. By the time the big day arrives, they will have enjoyed the excitement of a daily surprise. It’s a special tradition that also encourages patience and anticipation for young ones. It’s a fun and educational way to help children experience the holiday season.

Add Cozy Holiday Bedding for Kids

Transforming your kids’ beds with festive holiday-themed bedding is an easy way to add cheer to their room. Look for holiday-themed sheets, blankets, or comforters with fun designs like snowflakes, Santa, or reindeer. This simple update makes their space feel more festive and cozy, perfect for chilly winter nights. It’s also a great way to get kids excited about bedtime during the holiday season. The comfort and warmth of the new bedding will make them look forward to snuggling up after a busy day of holiday fun.

By incorporating soft, warm fabrics and holiday colors, you can instantly make a bedroom feel more seasonal. This also gives kids something to look forward to when they get ready for bed each night. Plus, the festive bedding adds to the holiday ambiance throughout the house. It’s a small change that makes a big impact, giving kids a special place to sleep during the holiday break. A cozy, holiday-themed bedroom provides a sense of joy and comfort during the season.

Kid-Friendly Holiday Gift Wrapping Station

Setting up a wrapping station can be an exciting way for kids to get involved in gift-giving during the holiday season. Provide kid-friendly wrapping paper, ribbons, and stickers so they can help wrap their own gifts or create their own gift tags. It’s a great opportunity to teach them about the joys of giving and creating thoughtful surprises. Having a designated space for wrapping gifts also helps avoid the chaos of wrapping on the go. Plus, kids will love being part of the holiday preparations and will enjoy making their packages unique.

A wrapping station doesn’t need to be elaborate – simply clear a space on a table and organize materials in containers that are easy for kids to reach. Include some fun holiday stamps or markers so they can decorate the wrapping themselves. Kids love the process of choosing the paper and personalizing the gift, making it a special activity they can do independently. This station also provides an opportunity for them to practice fine motor skills. It’s a great way to get them involved in the season of giving while staying productive.

Organize a Family Holiday Game Night

Holiday game nights are a fun way to bring the whole family together. Set up a game station with a variety of board games, card games, and other family-friendly activities. These can include classic games like Monopoly or newer ones that appeal to kids of all ages. It’s a fun, low-tech way to spend quality time with loved ones during the holiday break. Plus, game nights help develop teamwork and problem-solving skills in kids while providing hours of entertainment.

When setting up a game night, consider offering a mix of both quick games and longer ones, so everyone can enjoy the pace. You can even add a little twist by incorporating holiday-themed challenges or trivia. If you have younger kids, try simpler games that they can easily follow along with. For older kids, try more strategic games that involve a bit more thought. This activity keeps everyone engaged and entertained, no matter their age.

Set Up a Hot Chocolate Bar

A hot chocolate bar is a festive way to treat the kids and get them involved in the kitchen. Set up a station with mugs, hot chocolate mix, marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles for a fun treat. The kids will love customizing their drinks with different toppings, and it adds a bit of holiday magic to any day. This activity can be done after playing outside in the snow or as a cozy afternoon snack. The best part is that it’s simple to set up and provides an activity and snack all in one.

You can also add a few holiday-themed items to the bar, like peppermint sticks or flavored syrups, to make it extra festive. The hot chocolate station gives kids something to look forward to each day during the holiday break. It’s a wonderful way to slow down and enjoy the season with your family. Make it a daily ritual or a weekend treat, and it will become a highlight of the holidays. The hot chocolate bar is perfect for gatherings or just a quiet day at home.

Build a DIY Gingerbread House Kit

Making gingerbread houses is a beloved holiday tradition that kids can’t get enough of. Set up a DIY gingerbread house kit with all the components needed to create a fun edible masterpiece. You can buy pre-made kits or make your own gingerbread pieces and frosting for a more hands-on experience. This activity is perfect for kids because it allows them to be creative while getting into the holiday spirit. It also gives them a project that keeps them entertained for hours.

A gingerbread house kit provides a chance to practice building and decorating skills, and the best part is that they can eat their creation once it’s done! Keep the supplies organized by placing everything they need in easy-to-reach containers. You can add additional candies or decorations for a personal touch. Afterward, the finished product can be displayed or shared as a fun holiday treat. This tradition is fun for the whole family and makes the holiday season even more memorable.

Organize a Family Cookie Decorating Day

Cookie decorating is a fun and interactive way to spend time together as a family during the holidays. Set up a cookie decorating station with pre-baked cookies, icing, sprinkles, and other fun toppings. Let the kids use their creativity to design their own cookie masterpieces, which they can later enjoy as a sweet treat. As a group activity, it’s perfect for bonding time and creates lasting memories. This festive activity keeps everyone engaged and adds a bit of extra cheer to the holiday season.

You can even turn cookie decorating into a mini competition, with fun prizes for the most creative or funniest cookie designs. To make it extra special, consider using holiday-shaped cookies like trees, snowflakes, or stars. Once the decorating is done, you’ll have delicious cookies to share and enjoy together. It’s a fun way to introduce kids to holiday traditions while also indulging in a little bit of sweetness. Cookie decorating is a holiday activity that’s sure to become a family favorite.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.