The holidays are a magical—yet undeniably busy—time of year. As parents, having a few low-prep, low-cost activities up our sleeves to keep little ones happy during cold days, travel, or just because can make the season feel even more magical for everyone. Here are five of our favorites (plus a bonus!)
1. Magnatiles and Jingle Bells
This activity takes little effort to set up but packs a big punch with children! Simply set out a bag or two of small jingle bells like these and some magnatiles and let the creativity begin! Use three triangle magnatiles to make Christmas trees or challenge your little one to make a Gingerbread house and add the jingle bells as decorations!
2. Window Clings
Children LOVE to be a part of the decorating process during the holidays. Window clings like these are a fun and safe way for them to get involved, and they will keep coming back to them day after day! Sets like these with many characters and objects are especially fun because they encourage story telling and pretend play!
3. Gingerbread Houses
Gingerbread houses and kits are a perfect holiday activity for kids because they combine creativity, sensory fun, and easy, hands-on construction. With pre-baked pieces and simple decorations included, kits like these (and they are only $4!) remove the stress and let kids jump right into building and decorating.
4. Beads and Pipe Cleaners
Kids get so excited to create beautiful things with beads! (and we love that it works on fine motor skills in the most fun way!) Grab some holiday colored pony beads or fun snowflake beads like these and set out some pipe cleaners. Forming the pipe cleaners into holiday shapes like candy canes, Christmas trees or snowflakes makes this activity extra festive and they make cute ornaments or gifts for friends!
5. Paper Chain Countdown
Half the fun during the holidays is the anticipation of the special day to come! Let your child use strips of paper and markers, glitter crayons or stickers to make a paper chain countdown to Christmas! They will have the best time assembling it and just as much fun ripping a chain link off each day as they countdown!
BONUS:
THIS tree is so gorgeous when put together and the coloring of ornaments will keep all your children happy.
Looking for a list of the best books sent to your inbox each month? You and your child will love my monthly love letter to young readers, Beloved Books!
Check out these other posts for more holiday inspiration:
- Books with Holiday TV Specials
- All the Best Christmas Books for 2025
- The Ultimate Interest Based Gift Guide for Kids 0-8
By: Becca Thiemann, Kathleen Koester and Kelsey Jaspers
