The ultimate festive pack for parents
Helping families enjoy a calmer, more connected festive season.
The festive season is one of those times that can bring out the best and the busiest in all of us. There’s excitement, magic and family time, but also lists, late nights and the pressure to do it all.
This pack is here to help take some of that weight off. It’s filled with simple, affordable and heartwarming ideas to help you make memories with your children, stay organised and find a bit of peace in between. You don’t need to spend a fortune or do every tradition under the sun, this pack will help you to find what works for your family. So, grab a cuppa, settle in and let’s make this festive season a little less chaotic and a lot more joyful.
Whether or not your family celebrates Christmas, or even if you don’t love the festive season, the winter holidays can still be a lot to manage. Routines shift, excitement runs high and the days can feel long when it’s cold and dark outside. It can also be a time of stress and worry, and not everyone feels the festive magic, and that’s okay, too.
This pack is here to help bring a little calm, connection and creativity to the season. Most of the activities can be scaled up or down to suit your family’s time, budget and energy levels and are easy to adapt to your own family traditions and beliefs, or just to make the most of time together at home.
Keeping your child entertained
When it’s cold and dark outside, keeping children happy can feel like a challenge. But a bit of imagination goes a long way, and many of the best ideas don’t cost a thing.
Hands putting a mouth on a snowman. Credit: Ivabalk from Pixabay
Games and laughter
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Festive bingo
We’ve made you a bingo game with a festive touch – easy to download below and start the game -
Charades
Pop festive film titles or winter activities into a bowl for a quick after-dinner laugh or use our charades download below for an easy win -
Quiz time!
Put together a family quiz with rounds like guess the festive song, winter animals or around the world traditions. It’s a great way to include grandparents, cousins or friends too, even over video call! -
Scavenger hunt
Hide small items around the house (a bauble, a candy cane, a sprig of tinsel) and give the children clues to find them or use our fun, printable‘little festive finders hunt’ and send the children around the house and outside to see who can tick off the most items! -
Riddles and jokes
Share a new one each morning or write a few into homemade crackers
The ultimate festive pack for parents
The goal isn’t to fill every minute, it’s about having go-to ideas when you need a burst of fun or a shared laugh after a long day.
Festive crafts and activities
Children doing festive crafts. Credit: suit Manna from Pixabay
Crafting together can be calming, creative and full of connection. The focus isn’t on perfection, but on about spending time side by side and letting your child’s ideas lead the way.
Simple makes
- Homemade ornaments
Salt dough, cardboard stars or even pinecones from the park can all become decorations
- Festive cards
Use scrap paper, potato stamps or fingerprints to make personalised cards
- Paper snowflakes
A timeless favourite. Challenge everyone to make the most intricate design!
Or a ‘letter to my future self’ about what you’re most looking forward to next year
Creative extras
Ask everyone to add their top three songs and play it while you decorate, bake or tidy. Or listen to our festive playlist – you’re welcome!
Try spiced biscuits, fairy cakes or mug cakes that children can decorate themselves or try one of the festive recipes in our downloadable pack
Give your teen a phone or camera and inspire them to complete our ‘seasonal snapshots photography challenge’. Save the challenge as an image and send it to them when you hear the words ‘I’m bored!’
- Family ideas jar
Grab a jar and some paper slips. Everyone writes down things they’d love to do over the festive season, like watch a film in pyjamas, bake something new, play board games, etc. Pull one out when you need a dose of family fun.
Festive fun for everyone
Every age enjoys the season differently. Younger children often thrive on play and small surprises, tweens normally enjoy independence and responsibility and many teens prefer creative, low-key activities.
Younger children – ages two to seven
Younger children will enjoy activities where they can spend time with you, and where you can take responsibility for the set-up and more difficult steps. Here are some ideas:
- Decorate together
Help them make easy crafts like paper chains, salt dough ornaments or window snowflakes
- Story time
Cuddle up and read books or invent your own festive stories
- Kindness jar
Write ideas like “help tidy up” or “draw a picture for someone” on paper slips and draw one when the kids need something to do
- Festive dress-up
Let them dress up with scarves, hats or paper crowns – or better yet, loan them some of your dressy clothes
- Bake together
Children love baking simple biscuits or fairy cakes and sharing them with their families
Supporting younger children during the festive season
Keep it simple, plan downtime and talk about what’s coming. Younger children thrive on routine and consistency – so if they know what’s coming, they’ll be less anxious in a season where things can get busy and routines may be different.
Tweens – ages eight to 12
Tweens thrive on doing things independently and when given the responsibility of a task without an adult hovering over the steps they take to complete it. Give them some freedom to grow their skills in the safe environment of your home. Here are some ideas:
- DIY gift workshop
Let them make bracelets, decorate jars or design homemade cards without buying anything new
- Bake and decorate
Search for easy cupcake or cookies recipes and let them master the baking on their own
- Room makeover challenge
Challenge your tween to make over their room with things only found in your house or outside – no buying allowed!
- Festive quiz master
Make your tween run a family quiz or bingo night
- Photo prompt scavenger hunt
Text them some prompts and send them all around your home and outside to see what they come up with
Supporting tweens in the festive season
- Offer them choices and respect their independence, but try to maintain your household routine
- Encourage participation in family activities, but also allow them alone time to recharge
- Let them lead, but watch for overwhelm in more difficult activities
- Find shared fun and acknowledge their effort in trying new things
Teens – ages 13 to 18
Your teens may have outgrown old traditions but still want to feel connected, just in their own way. Here are some ideas to connect with them, and maybe even start some new traditions:
- Hot chocolate challenge
Challenge your teen to create café-style drinks with what you have in your kitchen
- DIY photo booth
Let them set up a family photo booth of their own design – they won’t need more than fairy lights, some props, and a camera or mobile phone for an afternoon of fun
- Film night takeover
Let them plan the line-up for film night – you might be surprised by what they choose to watch with you
- Bake-off challenge
Give them a couple of must-use ingredients and let them loose in the kitchen
Supporting teens during festive chaos
- Respect their space and independence
- Involve them in planning meals, films or decorations and celebrate their contribution
- Keep communication open and flexible – never push for conversations, rather let them come to you when they want to talk
Not every day will feel calm or joyful, and that’s completely normal.
Advent calendar alternatives
Hanging advent calendar. Credit: Congerdesign from Pixabay
Advent calendars are a fun way to make the countdown to special days creative, thoughtful and full of festive surprises. Put your own spin on it this year and think out of the box. Why not try one of the following:
- Kindness countdown
Do one kind act a day: help set the table, share a toy, write a thank-you note
- Mindfulness calendar
Add a calm daily prompt such as go outside for five minutes or listen to your favourite song
Make December a month of gratitude! Each day, take a moment together to write or draw what you’re thankful for in that day’s box. At the end of the month, celebrate all the little joys you’ve shared
- Story or poem a day
Discover a new festive story each evening (plenty are available online for free)
- Film or clip a day
Short festive films or old cartoons make lovely shared moments before bedtime
- Puzzle advent
Do one puzzle piece a day and complete it together on Christmas Eve
- Reverse advent
Each day, collect a food item or small gift to donate to a local food bank or community centre
The idea is to make December less about stuff and more about connection, kindness and family rhythm.
Supporting wellbeing and SEND needs
Young child in Santa hat sleeping with books. Credit: Submit from Pixabay
The festive season can feel overwhelming with loud music, flashing lights, disrupted routines and social expectations. It’s okay to step back and simplify things.
Tips and reassurance
- Keep routines steady where possible
Mealtimes, bedtime and quiet time can help children feel secure
- Be clear about what’s coming up
Visual calendars or social stories can make events feel predictable and manageable
- Build in calm spaces
A quiet corner with a blanket and some soft light can be a haven when things get noisy
- Anticipate change
If plans change, reassure your child early and often. Flexibility takes practice, even for adults
- Normalise not giving all presents at once
Opening gifts gradually can help children feel calmer and enjoy each gift more
Even the small moments count, and skipping activities is okay!
Activities for calm
The festive season can also be overwhelming for parents. Make sure to look after yourself, too!
- Try yoga, Pilates or gentle stretches set to soft music
- Go for a winter walk and notice the smells, sounds and textures of the season
- Use the conversation cards in our downloadable pack to chat about what your child enjoys and what they find tricky at this time of year
It’s fine to do less. The most meaningful memories often come from the quiet, unplanned moments. And if you’re not feeling festive, skip out on events and spend time on yourself instead.
Navigating different traditions
It’s normal for children to notice what other families do, and to want to join in. Other families may have different traditions, expectations or budgets, and that can bring its own pressures. Every family has its own way of celebrating (or not) and it’s okay if yours looks a little different. When your child asks for something or wants to participate in an activity your family doesn’t do, take time to listen first, then explain your family’s choices in a calm and confident way. You might find a small compromise or create a new tradition of your own. What matters most is helping your child feel loved, secure and included, even if your celebrations don’t look like everyone else’s.
It’s okay to set gentle boundaries and stick to what works for your household. You might simply say, “We’re keeping things simple this year,” or “That’s not part of what we do, but we love hearing how you celebrate.” Most people will understand, and those who don’t may just need a little reminder that every family finds joy in their own way.
Looking after yourself
The festive season can be magical, but it can also bring a lot of pressure, often falling heaviest on parents, and especially on mums, to create the “perfect season.” Between busy schedules, gift buying, cooking, decorating and keeping everyone happy, it’s easy to feel stressed and exhausted.
It’s important to remember that children won’t recall every tiny detail in the long run, they’ll remember how they felt. Moments of laughter, warmth and connection matter far more than flawless decorations or elaborate meals.
Practical tips to take the pressure off:
- Simplify traditions
Keep the ones that matter most and let go of anything that adds stress without meaning
- Show yourself compassion
Remind yourself that you’re doing your best in a busy season. Give yourself the same kindness you give your family
- Carve out quiet time
Even ten minutes of uninterrupted me-time can make a difference. This could be a mini spa session, reading a book, a phone catch-up with a friend, or simply sitting down with a hot drink. Tailor it to what refreshes you
- Ask for help
Share tasks with your partner, older children or friends. It’s okay to delegate wrapping, cooking or decorating.
- Pace yourself
Build in small breaks between activities, and don’t feel you need to fill every moment.
Taking care of yourself isn’t indulgent, it’s essential. The calmer and more supported you feel, the more present and joyful you can be with your family, creating festive memories that everyone will treasure.
Festive wellbeing hacks
Even a few minutes can make a big difference. Try some of these ideas to recharge:
- Mini spa session
A warm bath, face mask or favourite scented candle can help you relax
- Hot drink pause
Sit somewhere cosy with your favourite tea, coffee or hot chocolate, just for yourself
- Five‑minute mindfulness
Close your eyes, focus on your breath or be still and notice the sounds around you
- Phone catch-up
A quick chat with a friend or family member to share a laugh or vent
- Movement break
Stretch, dance to a favourite song or take a short walk outside
Even small moments of self-care help reduce stress, boost patience and make the season feel more manageable.
Different family set-ups: making this season work
The festive season can look very different from one family to another. For parents who share care or live apart, this time of year can bring extra planning, mixed emotions and moments of adjustment for everyone. Whether your child is spending time between homes or joining new family celebrations, a little preparation and open communication can help everyone feel more settled.
Child admiring festive tree
Preparing children for time apart
It’s natural for children to feel a mix of excitement and sadness about spending time away from one parent. Try to talk about the plan early and clearly, using calm, reassuring language. Visual schedules, calendars or simple countdowns can help younger children understand what’s happening and when they’ll see each parent again. Comfort items like a soft toy, a small photo or a familiar blanket can also ease transitions.
Keep routines as steady as possible around mealtimes and bedtime, even if the setting changes. Let your child know it’s okay to miss one parent while having fun with the other. Both feelings can exist at the same time. A simple message such as “You can love us both and enjoy time with everyone” helps build emotional security.
Welcoming them home
When your child returns, give them space to settle in at their own pace. They might come back full of stories or need quiet time to decompress. Ask gentle questions, listen with curiosity and let them share what they want to share.
Try to resume regular routines gradually, so the shift back feels predictable and calm. You might create a small ritual to mark your reunion like a favourite meal, a film night or a simple “welcome home” moment together. These small gestures help children feel grounded and remind them that home is a safe, steady place they can return to.
If emotions run high (for them or you) know that this is normal. The holidays can stir up lots of feelings. Offering consistency and reassurance goes a long way.
Blended and changing families
Many families look different now from how they once did, and that’s okay. New partners, stepparents, and extended families can bring both joy and complexity to the season. You might find yourself creating new traditions while keeping hold of old ones that still matter. Try to focus on small, shared moments like decorating together or watching a film, rather than striving for perfection. What children remember most isn’t how the day was divided, but that they felt included and loved in each place they call home.
Money-saving tips
Wrapped gifts. Credit: Yevhen Buzuk from Pixabay
Festive fun and long days at home can turn out to be expensive. The good news is that most children remember the festive feeling, not the price tag. Here are some simple ideas for managing your finances this season.
Budgeting made simple
- Set a clear limit for gifts and food, and stick to it
- Try the ‘something to wear, something to read, something to do’ rule for presents. It means you gift a mix of lovely things: something cosy, something for their brain, and something for fun!
- Make a list before you shop (and check it twice)
Frugal fun
- Swap decorations with friends or neighbours
- Plan a crafting afternoon instead of a pricey day out
- Wrap gifts in old newspapers, brown paper or children’s artwork
Save your sanity too
- Know it’s okay to say no to unnecessary extras like elaborate ‘Elf on the Shelf’ setups or pricey Christmas Eve boxes. Don’t feel like you have to participate in something that will make the holidays stressful for you
- Keep food simple and comforting. No one minds if it’s not perfect, they’ll just be glad you’re all together
- Gift family and friends paper vouchers for things like a movie night, breakfast in bed, etc. It takes only a couple of minutes to print, and your gifting is sorted for this year (and your budget will thank you, too!)
Looking after your sanity might mean batch cooking some meals before the big days or preparing one special item in advance. We’ve done the legwork and found some links that might be useful:
Do what you want. Yes. That’s it – if you don’t want to host Christmas or cook an elaborate meal or spend precious time or money on gifts, don’t. You are the keeper of your own peace, and you need to look after yourself, first.
Organising hacks
A little planning goes a long way to keeping the chaos under control.
Some simple ideas
- Batch cook and freeze simple meals now, so December doesn’t become a cooking marathon
- Get children involved in wrapping or writing tags, it’s one less job for you!
- Schedule time for yourself, even if it’s ten quiet minutes with a hot drink
You don’t need to do everything, decide what matters most to your family.
Holiday highlights hub
Looking for a little extra cheer, insight or calm this festive season? Our holiday highlights hub brings together playlists, TED Talks and podcasts for families and parents, perfect for shared moments, quiet reflection or a well-earned break with a cup of something warm.
Children playing with festive ornaments
Festive playlist
Parentkind’s festive playlist is a mix of old-school jingles and cheerful favourites – use it for dance parties, background music for crafting sessions or setting the mood for festivities.
Podcasts
A mix of festive cheer, family fun, and grown-up giggles — these podcasts are great for car rides and cosy evenings or when you need a moment to yourself.
Short & Curly
A fun and thought-provoking kids podcast that explores big ethical questions for curious young minds. Hosts Molly Daniels, Carl Smith and philosopher Eleanor Gordon-Smith tackle topics like fairness, truth and kindness, helping kids learn how to think, not what to think. Perfect for ages 8–12.
Comedians Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe share the hilarious highs and relatable lows of raising kids, from bedtime battles to everyday chaos. Honest, funny and a good reminder that no one really has it all together. Perfect for parents.
When eight-year-old Holly’s Christmas wish comes true, she finds herself in Tinsel Town, a world of endless snow, sparkling lights and holiday cheer. But with time running out and help from a few unlikely friends, she must discover how to return home before it’s too late.
Hosted by Brian Earl, this podcast uncovers the fascinating stories and forgotten origins behind beloved festive traditions. Blending nostalgia and rich storytelling, it’s the perfect listen while wrapping gifts or trimming the tree, like a cosy chat about the magic of Christmas through history.
Ted Talks
The festive season can be tough, and it’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough as a parent. These TED Talks offer reassurance, insight and practical ideas, helping you reflect and remember that connection and small, thoughtful moments matter more than perfection.
For parents, happiness is a very high bar
Journalist Jennifer Senior explores why chasing constant happiness in parenting can feel impossible, and suggests focusing instead on raising kind, resilient and connected children.
The single most important parenting strategy
Clinical psychologist Becky Kennedy argues that the most important parenting strategy isn’t avoiding mistakes, but learning to repair them when they happen, reconnecting with your child and rebuilding trust.
How to protect your emotional health during the holidays
Psychologist Guy Winch shares practical strategies for managing stress, loneliness and family tensions during the holiday season, helping you protect your mental health and enjoy the festivities a little more.
How we turned our family’s holiday gift exchange into a chance to really connect
This talk explores a creative approach to holiday gift giving, showing how small, thoughtful rituals can bring families closer and reduce stress, turning the festive season into a chance for meaningful connection.
The ultimate festive pack for parents
Need help?
The festive season can bring joy and connection, but it can also be overwhelming and emotionally difficult. Whether you’re struggling yourself, worried about your child or simply need someone to talk to, help is available. The organisations below offer free, confidential advice and support for parents, carers and families across the UK. You don’t have to face things alone.
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Provides confidential mental health support and information services
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Offers 24/7 confidential emotional support for anyone in distress or at risk of suicide
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Provides a free, confidential 24/7 text messaging service for anyone in the UK who needs support. They offer text support as well, just text “SHOUT” to 85258
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Offers emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life
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Provides support for parents and carers, offering emotional support, information and guidance on relationships, conflict, parenting, caring, financial worries and more.
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Offers free, confidential support for parents worried about their child’s mental health.
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Description: Offers support for parents and carers, including help with keeping children safe from harm or abuse.
Festive, happy and calm
The festive season doesn’t have to be picture-perfect. It’s the little moments of togetherness that matter most. It’s about avoiding outside pressures so you can find little moments of calm. We hope this pack helps you find family fun, creativity and joy along the way.
The ultimate festive pack for parents
