CREATING HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
By Maureen Connolly
It's never to early to involve your child in the wonder and excitement of the holiday season. Even babies can appreciate the special sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa. Creating holiday traditions with your own family is one of the best ways to celebrate with and teach your baby. Here are some simple ideas to help get you started:- Purchase one or two special children's books about the holiday you observe. Only take them out during the special season. As your child gets older, make a trip to the library so he can pick out books that celebrate the holiday.
- On the morning of the special day -- before company arrives or you go to visit relatives -- sit down as a family for a meal that includes your favorite breakfast items, such as warm scones or pancakes made in fun shapes. Drink juice out of pretty glasses and play holiday music. Set the table the night before to create an element of anticipation and excitement.
- If you decorate a Christmas tree, find a farm where you can cut down your own tree. Keep the roots attached so you can plant the tree afterwards. Once the tree is brought inside, sip hot chocolate as you all enjoy the fresh smell of evergreen that now fills your home. Consider a tree that's planted during your child's first year her special tree. Each year, take a picture of her next to the tree so you can see just how much she grows from year to year.
- One night before Christmas, take a leisurely drive or stroll around the neighborhood so your little one can enjoy all the pretty lights and holiday decorations. Don't forget your camera.
- Start a holiday movie night (or afternoon). Watch holiday kiddie classics, like Charlie Brown's Christmas and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Eat homemade cookies and candy canes while you snuggle under a blanket.
Maureen Connolly is the managing editor of Your Baby Today and mom to Jack, 3, and Sean, 11 months.
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The content on these pages is provided as general information only and should not be substituted for the advice of your physician.
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