5 Favorite Ways to Enjoy December with the Kids

December is usually associated with Christmas – that’s the holiday that reigns supreme in every department store in the U.S. – but there’s also Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Three Kings Day, St. Lucia Day and Ramadan! Regardless, it’s a great time to reflect on the year that’s passed and look forward to the new one on the horizon. It’s also the perfect month to bake, be cozy, and have fun outdoors (wear your coats, kids!).

There are lots of wonderful ways to celebrate those festive, freezing December days. Here are five of our favorites:

Facing the Freeze

There is something in the air during winter that feels completely different from the more popular times of the year to go for scenic walks. Bundle up, brace yourselves, and check out some of the winter wonderlands nearby…

If you’re in L.A. or some other seasonless state, do a search for snow-parks. Man-made drifts abound every December! If you’re not into the whole nature thing, a “hike” through a festive, blinking-lights decorated neighborhood is every bit as fun as an ecological winter wonderland.

On the Flat Screen

Regardless of your religion (or lack of), A Christmas Story is a must-see in December. This evergreen 80’s comedy is based on the humorous writings of author Jean Shepherd, and follows the wintry exploits of youngster Ralphie Parker, who spends most of his time dodging a bully, dreaming of his ideal Christmas gift, and dealing with his whacky, yet traditional family. Our favorite heartwarming classic is Miracle on 34th Street (1947), but if your kids can’t go the black and white route, a more modern fun flick is Frozen (2013).

With Traditional Treats

The incredibly long shelf-life of the fruitcake has been a running joke for more years than a fruitcake actually lasts, but making one from scratch is actually a lot of fun, and it’s a great family activity. Check out some of our favorite recipes for the month of December. 

Giving Back

December is one of the coldest months of the year in most of the U.S. It’s a good time to remind your kids that not everyone is fortunate enough to have heat, blankets, or even a coat. Gather up warm and fuzzies, then donate them to shelters (those for humans, or animals). See if there are soup kitchens in your neighborhood, or if organizations like Meals on Wheels need some extra help.

Better yet, show your kids that there are other kids in need – for example, the little ones can help lobby for funding for breakfast for low income students all year ‘round by writing letters to elected officials and talking to their school principal.

Celebrate Everything!

Did you know December hosts National Horse Day? That’s right! In 2004, the Senate signed legislation to officially make the second Saturday of December the National Day of the Horse.

Find a pretty picture to post on Facebook, buy a plastic pony, or best yet – donate a few bucks to a 5013c horse charity. National Horse Day is just one of many unusual December holidays – there’s also Underdog Day and Wright Brothers Day to name a few.

December isn’t just for religious observance – it’s a wonderful month for everyone to do fun things, whether you’re Christian, Jewish, or non-denominational.