Tis the season...for parents to worry whether they’re doing enough to make Christmas magical enough for their kids. It feels like every year the goalposts get moved back a bit more and you’re expected to literally have Rudolph in the back garden to stroke on Christmas eve. But let’s reassure ourselves with what – deep down – we know to be true. The festive season is about connection, not cash/impossible feats.
We’ve pulled together some of the parents at Save the Children’s favourite ways to spend time with their kids at Christmas, and we’d love to share them with you. Happy holidays!
Here's how to create meaningful Christmas memories for your family without the financial stress:
- Getting out and about
Christmas lights tours Map out a walking route through your local area to see the best displays. Pack a flask of hot chocolate and make it an annual tradition – it costs nothing but creates memories that last. - Community events
Wherever you live likely has free carol concerts, school fairs, library activities and Christmas markets. Check local council websites and community boards. These events are designed to be accessible, so take advantage of what's right on your doorstep. - Carol services
Most churches hold free services with refreshments afterwards. Whether you're religious or not, there's something special about singing carols together as a community. - Staying home
Movie nights Charity shops are goldmines for Christmas DVDs – often under £1 - yes we’ve (almost) all got Netflix, but choosing a real life film (as my daughter calls it) is somehow more fun. One parent suggested creating printable "film tickets" to make streaming feel special. Let each family member choose the movie one night. - Baking together
Homemade mince pies, gingerbread and Christmas cake cost a fraction of shop-bought versions. The real value is in the time spent together in the kitchen, with the Christmas music blaring, delicious smells filling your home - and flour absolutely everywhere. Just pretend its snow – adds to the magic. - Feed the reindeers (not actually)
Mix porridge oats with edible sprinkles and scatter it outside on Christmas Eve. Simple, magical, and safe for wildlife.
Thoughtful gifts that don’t cost the earth:
- Experience vouchers
Print free templates online or create your own, then fill them with promises for friends and little ones: babysitting for friends, dog walking, hair styling before a night out. Your time and skills are valuable gifts. Or, for your kids, a ‘Yes!’ day, where they get to decide everything, unlimited hugs, or for Bluey fans 5x Dance Mode opportunities (Google it). - Framed artwork
Your child's drawings and paintings become treasured keepsakes when framed. Pick up cheap frames from pound shops or charity shops – grandparents especially love these. - Christmas letters
Handwritten notes sharing memories from the year mean more than expensive presents. They're keepsakes that get read again and again. Having one for each child really helps them feel special, and recognise the unique value and joy they bring to your family. - Looking for more meaningful alternatives?
Head to our blog dedicated to what to give this Christmas, filled with a lot of ideas.
Traditions don't need to be expensive to be meaningful. Everyone’s suggestions came back to one thing - when families embrace simple rituals – whether that's annual light tours, movie nights or baking together – they become uniquely yours. These are the moments children remember: not what you spent, but how you made them feel. I can’t wait to try some of these this year!
This Christmas, give your family what they really want: your time, your presence, and the warmth of being together.
