As Christmas approaches, parents and nannies around London will be gearing up to create lasting memories for the little ones. From tree decoration to Christmas markets to visiting Santa at his grotto, there are of course many memorable traditions and Christmas pastimes we love to indulge in. But this Christmas, we encourage you to explore some new and unique activities to add an extra sprinkle of magic to your family’s celebrations.
Here are just some of our recommended Christmas activities. They are far-from-ordinary but will allow parents and nannies to impart valuable life lessons, create lasting memories for the family and perhaps form the start of a new, long-lasting tradition.
1. Letters to Santa
Children writing letters to Santa Claus is not novel per se but these letters can be so much more than simply compiling a wish list. As an addition to this year’s letter to the North Pole, encourage children to write about their favourite moments of the year and reflect on the kindness they've shown.
This practice encourages children to appreciate the good times, no matter how small. Reflecting on the kindness they've shown during the year also allows children to recognise their own acts of generosity, helping to foster a sense of gratitude.
2. Memory Ornament Making
Many people have made a tradition out of buying a new tree decoration or bauble each year with their children but a fun alternative can be to craft memory ornaments with the family. Each year, make an ornament that symbolises a significant event or achievement, building a beautiful, evolving story on your Christmas tree.
Expressing memories through ornament design allows children to unleash their creativity and experiment with colours, textures, and shapes. These ornaments can also become lasting keepsakes that children hold onto as they grow to serve as reminders of the positive memories and experiences that shaped their lives.
3. Reverse Advent Calendar
This idea turns the concept of a traditional advent calendar on its head. Instead of receiving treats, create a 'reverse' advent calendar where the family puts a non-perishable item into a box each day. Donate the box to a local food bank or charity on Christmas Eve, teaching the joy of giving and gratitude for what you have.
4. Pyjama Walk to See Christmas Lights
Everyone loves to ogle neighbours’ Christmas lights each year but this is a fun and cosy twist that extends beyond glancing at them from your car window. All willing family members and nannies put on their favourite pair of warm pyjamas (with a coat, scarves, gloves and wellies of course) and venture out for a leisurely stroll through your neighbourhood to admire the festive decorations.
You can take things like a thermos of hot chocolate with you for the journey but this is a fun way to round off the evening without the need for screen time and feel some of the festive magic in your local area. Alternatively, you can explore some of North West London’s Christmas markets such as the Hampstead Christmas Fayre, Christmas at Kenwood House or the North London Makers’ Markets (though you may want everyday attire for these).
If a pyjama stroll isn’t your cup of cocoa, or your local neighbourhood is light on the Christmas decor, then why not gather around the fire or snuggle on the sofa, and take turns sharing your favourite Christmas stories instead.
5. DIY Christmas Stockings
Instead of store-bought stockings, embark on a creative journey by making DIY Christmas stockings as a family. You could either buy a plain stocking (like this one) and decorate it, or for the confident sewers among you, you could make a stocking from scratch.
Whichever route you take, spend the afternoon personalising a stocking for each family member. This is another fun way to foster childrens’ creativity and let their imagination run free. Children can also keep these to reuse annually or perhaps even pass on to their own children one day!
6. The Twelve Days of Kindness
Embrace the spirit of giving by dedicating the twelve days leading up to Christmas to acts of kindness. Each day, challenge your family to perform a small act of generosity, spreading joy and warmth in your community.
7. Immerse Yourselves in Panto
This time of year is the perfect time to introduce children to pantomimes or musicals. Colourful costumes, exaggerated characters, humorous storylines and audience participation only add to the magic and make this a fun and memorable tradition in the lead up to the holidays.
Christmas in London is more than Winter Wonderland and receiving presents; it's an opportunity to weave unique traditions that reflect the values and experiences of your family. Whether it's crafting memory ornaments or embarking on a journey of kindness, these thoughtful traditions will teach children valuable life lessons and create lasting memories for your family, making this Christmas truly special for all.