12 Days of Christmas Challenges: Easy and Memorable Activities for the Whole Family

The holiday season is a magical time for mums to create cherished memories with their families. But with the hustle and bustle of Christmas, it can be challenging to slow down and enjoy quality time together. That’s why we’ve created this 12 Days of Christmas Challenge—a fun and easy way to bring festive joy into your home every day leading up to Christmas!

From crafts to baking and acts of kindness, these activities will fill your days with laughter, creativity, and the true spirit of the holidays.

Day 1: Make a Homemade Ornament

Start the challenge with a fun crafting session! Gather materials like popsicle sticks, paint, and glitter, and create personalized ornaments for your tree. Let the kids add their special touch—it’s a keepsake you’ll treasure forever.

Tip: Use air-dry clay for a unique twist and allow your kids to shape their ornaments.

Day 2: Write a Letter to Santa Together

Get cozy with your little ones and help them write or draw their wishes for Santa. Use colorful stationery or printable templates to make it extra festive. Don’t forget to seal the letter and “send” it to the North Pole!

Activity Boost: Make it a storytelling session by asking your kids what they think Santa is doing right now.

Day 3: Christmas Cookie Decorating Party

Bake a batch of cookies or buy plain ones from the store and set up a decorating station. Provide icing, sprinkles, and candies for the kids to unleash their creativity.

Bonus: Pack some decorated cookies as gifts for neighbors or friends.

Day 4: Create a Holiday Gratitude List

Take a moment to reflect on the blessings of the year. Encourage everyone to share something they’re thankful for, and write it on festive paper. Display the list as a daily reminder of the season’s true meaning.

Heartwarming Twist: Turn it into a gratitude jar and continue adding notes through December.

Day 5: Watch a Classic Christmas Movie

Bring the family together for a cozy movie night. Choose a holiday favorite like Home Alone or Elf, and create a theater experience with hot chocolate, popcorn, and blankets.

Interactive Fun: Pause the movie for trivia questions about the story!

Day 6: DIY Christmas Cards for Loved Ones

Let your kids’ creativity shine by making homemade cards. Provide markers, stickers, and glitter to decorate the cards, and help them write heartfelt messages inside.

Make It Special: Hand-deliver the cards to friends or relatives for an extra touch of love.

Day 7: Go on a Christmas Lights Walk or Drive

Bundle up and explore your neighborhood to admire the twinkling lights. Make it even more exciting with a scavenger hunt: find a Santa, reindeer, snowman, and other festive decorations.

Pro Tip: Bring a thermos of hot cocoa for the walk!

Day 8: Make a DIY Holiday Garland

Turn simple materials into a festive decoration. String together paper chains, popcorn, or cranberries to create a garland that adds a personal touch to your holiday decor.

Kid-Friendly Idea: Let the kids design their own paper chain patterns.

Day 9: Read a Christmas Story Together

Gather your little ones and enjoy a holiday-themed book like The Polar Express or The Night Before Christmas. Create a cozy reading nook with fairy lights and blankets to set the mood.

Engagement Tip: Let kids act out their favorite scenes from the story.

Day 10: Family Christmas Photo Day

Set up a DIY photo booth with props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and a festive backdrop. Capture silly poses and heartfelt moments to create lasting memories.

Extra Fun: Use these photos for your family Christmas cards!

Day 11: Do a Random Act of Kindness

Spread the holiday spirit by giving back. Donate toys, bake cookies for neighbors, or write thank-you notes for local community helpers. Teach your kids the joy of sharing and kindness.

Inspiration: Ask your kids to brainstorm ways to make someone smile this season.

Day 12: Host a Family Holiday Sing-Along

End the challenge with music and laughter. Sing classic carols together, complete with costumes or instruments if you have them. Record the session to share with loved ones or keep as a cherished memory.

Modern Twist: Create a playlist of holiday hits and have a mini dance party!

The 12 Days of Christmas Challenge is more than just a series of activities—it’s a way to connect with your kids and celebrate the magic of the season. Whether you’re crafting, baking, or simply spending quality time together, these moments will become treasured memories.