What Really Makes the Holidays Magical for Kids? (Besides the Presents, of Course)

Let’s be honest—kids love presents. They’ll tell you exactly what they want, circle the toy catalog, and keep a very close eye on the gifts under the tree. And hey, we get it, gifts are exciting!

But once the wrapping paper settles, what really sticks?

It’s the night you all stayed up late to watch Home Alone for the third time.

It’s the snowball fight in the yard that ended with warm blankets and marshmallow-y cocoa.

It’s the time your kids decorated the tree with ornaments all on one branch—and you left it that way.

At Bolder Play, we know the real magic of the holidays comes from these shared moments. The little things. The traditions you create, the laughs you share, and the playful chaos that make the season feel special. So, in the spirit of a not-too-perfect but still wonderfully memorable holiday, here are a few ideas to help your family soak up the season.

1. Create a "Yes Day" for Holiday Fun

Between holiday errands, baking, and a million to-dos, kids can end up feeling a little... shuffled around. Set aside one afternoon or evening to say yes to their ideas (within reason). Whether it’s wearing pajamas all day, building a living room fort, or sliding down the StairSlide twenty times in a row—it’s their day to call the shots.

Bonus: Let them add their favorite holiday treat to the baking list, even if it’s store-bought cookie dough. It still counts.

2. Recreate Favorite Memories—On Purpose

Ask your kids what their favorite holiday memories are. You might be surprised!

Sometimes it’s something simple, like the time you made cinnamon toast and watched snow fall. Whatever it is, make a plan to recreate it this year—on purpose. Traditions don’t have to be big or Pinterest-perfect to matter. They just need to feel personal.

3. Turn the "Waiting" Into Playtime

Waiting for Christmas can feel endless for kids. Try building anticipation in a fun way:

• Create a countdown chain, but add a twist—each link includes a tiny activity like “build a holiday obstacle course” or “sing your favorite carol with silly voices.”

• Do a 12 Days of Play challenge—try a new game, backyard adventure, or family challenge each day leading up to the holiday.

Play doesn’t have to stop when the tree goes up—in fact, that’s when kids need it most!

4. Let the Chaos Be Part of the Fun

Sometimes things don’t go to plan. The cookies burn. The gifts arrive late. The cousins are loud. And still—those are the memories that tend to stick.

Try embracing imperfection this year. Take a deep breath when things go sideways and remember: the goal isn’t a “flawless” holiday—it feels joyful, silly, and true to your family.

(And if your kids are bouncing off the walls? Send them outside with a Wicket Kick set or let them race down the StairSlide until dinner. It helps.)

5. Wrap Up the Year with Gratitude and Play

As the year winds down, invite your kids to help reflect on what they loved most. Maybe you write it down. Maybe you can talk about it over hot chocolate. Maybe you build a little photo collage of your favorite family play moments from the year.

Then, go out and make one last great memory—swinging in the backyard, dancing in the kitchen, or building the most ridiculous blanket fort ever.

The Magic Isn’t in the Presents—It’s in the Play

Yes, gifts are exciting. But long after the toys are put away (or left out all over the floor), your kids will remember the laughter, the movement, and the love they felt during the holidays.

From all of us at Bolder Play, we hope your season is full of warmth, joy, and a whole lot of play.

Happy Holidays!