Celebrating Christmas

By Sarah Hamaker

Do you need a little Christmas spirit that the whole family can enjoy—that won’t break the bank? Check out these low-cost and free ideas.

Countdown. Children of all ages love to tick off the days until Christmas, so invest in an advent calendar. You can go low-cost by printing out a December calendar or purchase an inexpensive one at the store.

Decorations. Pick a date to put up the lights and tree, serve hot chocolate, turn on holiday tunes, and make it a party. Get everyone involved to make it a family affair.

Tree lighting. Fairfax City offers a host of holiday things to do—nearly all for free—during its annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree on Saturday, Dec. 7. We love to go every year to sip hot chocolate, roast marshmallows for s’mores and listen to carolers.

Light tour. Our city residents sure have gotten into the spirit of the season with some truly eye-popping light displays. Put the kids in pajamas, load them in the car, and drive around to take a look. Or visit one of the area park’s light shows.

Give. Sometimes, the best part of this season is in giving. We love to make homemade gifts (roasted coffee beans, baked goods, canned jams, etc.) as gifts. If you’re not handy with scissors and glue or in the kitchen, you can give of your time. Maybe a relative or neighbor has some yard work that needs doing or you could simply visit someone who’s family lives far away. Gifts don’t have to be expensive to be meaningful and sometimes the gift of time is more valuable than anything bought in a store.

Smile. How often do we scurry around the month of December with a scowl on our faces because we’re consumed with making the perfect holiday? Think about your countenance as you shop and bake and interact with others. Spread holiday cheer with a smile on your face and leave some happiness in your wake.

How do you celebrate the December holidays?

Coming in early 2014, Sarah and Mary Elizabeth Peritti will speak on Parenting With Love & Leadership in a four-part webinar series. Contact Sarah through her website for more information.

Do you have a parenting question you would like to see answered on this blog? Email Sarah with Parenting Question in the subject line. Sign up for Practical Parenting, Sarah’s a free, monthly e-newsletter with commonsense advice on child rearing, by visiting www.parentcoachnova.com and clicking on the newsletter tab.

Sarah Hamaker is a certified Leadership Parenting Coach™ through the Rosemond Leadership Parenting Coach Institute. She’s also a freelance writer and editor. Sarah lives in Fairfax, Va., with her husband and four children. Visit her online at www.parentcoachnova.com and follow her on Twitter @novaparentcoach.