With the sun shining and the holiday season in full swing, Christmas in Australia is a unique and wonderful experience. The warm weather doesn't dampen the festive spirit—it just means we get to celebrate in our own way! Here are some delightful Christmas activities tailor-made for toddlers to enjoy during the festive season this summer:
1. Beachy Christmas Crafts
Head to the beach or collect seashells and driftwood from the shore to create beach-themed ornaments or decorations. Let your little ones paint or glue their found treasures onto cardboard cutouts of Santa hats, stars, or even a beach-themed Christmas tree. Don’t forget to add ribbon to tie them onto your Christmas tree. These are also a great gift for family and friends!
2. Christmas Picnic in the Park
Pack a Christmas-themed picnic basket with your toddler's favourite snacks, festive treats, and refreshing drinks. Find a shady spot in the park, spread out a blanket, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon of nibbling, playing games, and soaking up the sun. don’t forget your hat and sunscreen.
3. DIY Christmas Cards
Encourage your toddler to get creative and make Christmas cards for family and friends. Use finger painting, stamps, or stickers to decorate the cards, adding a touch of personal flair that will surely bring smiles to the recipients.
4. Tropical Christmas Tree Hunt
Visit a local farm or nursery to pick out a live potted Christmas tree or a native Australian plant like a Banksia or a Norfolk Island Pine. Decorate it with eco-friendly ornaments or homemade decorations for a unique Australian Christmas tree. Watch your tree grow year after year with your children for a great Christmas memory.
5. Holiday Baking Bonanza
Spend a cozy afternoon baking delicious holiday treats. Allow your toddler to assist in mixing, pouring, and decorating cookies or cupcakes. Don't worry about the mess; it's all part of the fun! The sweet aroma filling the house will add to the festive cheer.
6. Festive Music and Dance Party
Create a playlist of cheerful Christmas songs and have a dance party with your toddler. Encourage them to move and groove to the music—it's a great way to burn off their boundless energy while spreading joy.
7. Water Play with a Festive Twist
Turn on the sprinklers or set up a kiddie pool in the backyard for some water play. Add a dash of Christmas fun by tossing in floating Christmas-themed toys or playing games involving water and colourful balls.
8. Christmas Light Trail Excursion
Explore your neighbourhood or local areas renowned for their elaborate Christmas light displays. Take an evening stroll or drive around to marvel at the twinkling lights and festive decorations adorning houses and streets.
9. Indigenous Art Inspired Crafts
Learn about Aboriginal art with your toddler and create simple art projects inspired by traditional dot painting or Dreamtime stories. Use colourful paints and cotton swabs to create beautiful and meaningful artworks together.
10. Acts of Kindness Countdown
Create a kindness advent calendar with simple daily acts of kindness your toddler can do, such as drawing a picture for a friend or helping with chores around the house. Teach them the joy of giving and sharing.
11. DIY Santa's Milk and Cookies
On Christmas Eve, help your toddler prepare a plate of cookies and a glass of milk for Santa. This tradition adds to the excitement as they eagerly anticipate Santa's visit.
Remember, the most important thing is spending quality time together and cherishing these magical moments. Embrace the mess, cherish the laughter, and savour the joy that comes with seeing the wonder of Christmas through your toddler's eyes.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with sunshine, laughter, and endless smiles!
