As the holiday season approaches, many of us feel the pressure to check off gift lists, perfect our decor, and fit in every cherished tradition. But here’s a reminder we could all use: You don’t have to do it all. At Little Monsters Universe, we believe the best gifts aren’t things. They’re the moments we share, the memories we create, and the simple joy of being with the people we love.
“The best things in life are not things.”
This is a message I hold close to my heart as a mother and as a creator of educational resources for families. Our world is full of stuff, but the most valuable gifts we give our children aren’t wrapped in shiny paper or tied with ribbons—they’re the moments we share together. The laughter, adventures, and quiet moments spent together are what truly make the season special.
As a family who loves the outdoors, we’ve found that slowing down and embracing simple activities creates the most meaningful memories. Whether it’s a walk in the woods or an art project, these moments leave a lasting impact on us all.
But how do you make sure these moments are intentional during the holiday season, when there’s so much going on? Here are a few simple, yet meaningful ideas for creating lasting memories with your family this year.
1. Take a “Thankfulness Walk”
This idea came from a tradition we started in 2021 with my daughters. Every day during the holiday season, we would write something we were thankful for on a leaf and hang it on our homemade “Thankful Tree.” It became such a meaningful tradition, watching the tree fill up with little notes of gratitude as the days passed. The tree now stands as a beautiful reminder of all the blessings in our lives.
This year, we’re adding a new layer to our thankfulness tradition: a “Thankfulness Walk.” Once a month, we plan to take a walk where each of us shares something we’re grateful for. We hope the walk helps us slow down, connect, and appreciate the beauty and simple joys of the seasons. It’s a wonderful way to reflect on gratitude, while getting outdoors and enjoying some fresh air together.
2. Create a Family Memory Jar
There’s something special about reflecting on happy moments and storing them away to look back on later. A Family Memory Jar is a simple idea we adopted a few years ago. It’s now a favorite holiday tradition. Throughout the year, we add little notes to the jar. Whether it’s a special outing, a holiday tradition, or a funny family moment, we write it down and add it.
At the end of the year, we open the jar and reminisce about all the good times we’ve shared. It’s a reminder that, while the holiday season might bring us joy, it’s the ongoing, small moments throughout the year that really make our lives rich with meaning.
For more details on how to create your own Family Memory Jar, check out Organise My House for step-by-step guidance and inspiration!
3. Spend Time Creating Together
I’ve always believed in the power of creativity to connect people. Whether we’re working on a craft project, telling stories,
or even just drawing, spending time creating together has been a great way for us to bond as a family. During the holidays, we set aside time to make homemade ornaments, wrapping paper, and Christmas cards. We also love to bake together—cookies, gingerbread houses, and whatever else sparks our creativity during this special time of year.
One of my most cherished holiday memories is the time we spent together making little sock snowmen to put in our living ro
om. It wasn’t perfect, but the act of creating something together felt so much more meaningful than buying a store-bought decoration.
Why These Moments Matter
It’s easy to get swept up in buying gifts or filling our schedules with holiday events, but when I look back on my childhood, it’s the small moments with family that stand out the most. These moments of connection remind our children that they are loved, valued, and cherished just as they are. And I’ll be honest, I need to remind myself of this too, especially as the holiday hustle sets in.
This holiday season, let’s give ourselves permission to do less and enjoy more. Let’s let go of the expectation to make every moment magical, and instead, embrace the little things that bring real joy. Kids don’t need an elaborate holiday; they just want time with us.
Need More Ideas for Meaningful Family Moments?
If you’re looking for more ways to explore, learn, and create memories with your kids, Little Monsters Universe is here to help! From nature journaling and outdoor activities to hands-on projects that foster curiosity and learning, we’ve got plenty of resources to help you make the most of your time together.
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Thank you for being a part of the Little Monsters Universe community. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to connect with families who are committed to fostering curiosity, creativity, and meaningful learning. I hope this holiday season brings you closer to the ones you love, and I look forward to sharing even more exciting ways to explore the world with your little ones in the year ahead.
