10 Ways to Show Your Kids the True Meaning of Christmas — Without the Gifts

Updated on 12/12/2018 at 12:06 PM

Is there anything quite as magical as Christmas morning? Kids run downstairs at the crack of dawn, eager to get to the presents Santa has left them under the tree. And as parents, we get to watch our little ones rip open their gifts with huge smiles on their faces. Because it's so fun to give and receive, it can be really easy for kids to focus on gifts and forget about everything else that makes Christmas so special. They can overlook the truly special moments of the season, like spending time with family, helping others in need, and being thankful for everything and everyone they already have in their lives.

The truth is, when I look back on my own childhood Christmases, I barely remember any of the gifts I was given. What I do remember are the moments spent with friends and family and all of the other things that got me in the Christmas spirit. So this holiday season, try doing some of these activities with your kids to show them that Christmas is about so much more than just gifts.

Read Christmas Stories

Cozy up in bed and read Christmas stories to your kids. It's a great way to spend time together and hear warm tales about the magic and true meaning of the holiday.

Write Christmas Cards

Have your kids spread Christmas cheer by writing cards to their friends and family. They can get as creative as they'd like, and it's a great way for them to show their appreciation for people who have made an impact on their life in some way.

Go to a Holiday Parade

One of my favorite holiday traditions as a child was watching my town's parade of lights. It's a wonderful reminder for kids that even when people are different or don't agree on everything, they can still come together and celebrate.

Teach Them to Bake

Baking is a wonderful way to have fun with your kids while teaching them a new skill. Have them wrap up and give some of their finished goods to friends and family as a thoughtful gift, but save some for yourselves, of course!

Create Traditions

Instead of looking forward to gifts every Christmas, I look forward to the traditions my family has kept over the years. Maybe it's watching a certain movie on Christmas Eve or going to a special cafe for Christmas hot chocolate; each one can be so special for kids.

Donate to a Food Bank

Have your kids gather some canned goods and take them to the food bank. It can be eye opening for them to see how lucky they are to have warm food on the table and inspire them to help others as much as they can.

Make Crafts

The holidays are about having fun, so why not make some festive crafts to get everyone in the spirit? It's a great way to decorate your house with a personal touch, it will entertain your kids for hours, and it can be something you do together.

Spend More Time Together as a Family

The holidays can be so busy, but it's important to make uninterrupted time for each other. Go ice skating, take a walk in the snow, or head downtown to see the holiday department store windows. No matter what you do, make sure to keep your phone away and your attention on each other.

See a Choir

Even if you don't practice a religion, watching a choir can be a truly heartwarming experience and a favorite holiday tradition.

Don't Overload Them

It's OK to treat your kids to new things, especially if they've been good and earned a spot on the "nice" list. Buying them everything under the sun, however, may send the wrong message. It's important to talk to family members who are buying for your kids and agree on an appropriate amount of gifts.