It’s the perfect time for fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas. The holiday season is here once again! Christmas trees are going up, cheerful carols are filling the air, and shopping centers are brimming with festive decorations.
However, incorporating fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas doesn’t mean compromising the educational and developmental aspects of toddlers. On the contrary, fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas offer a fantastic chance to inspire creativity and involve toddlers in engaging activities that support their learning, imagination, and social development.
Why not make this Christmas extra special by blending fun with learning? With fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas, you can spark their creativity and keep them engaged in exciting ways.
From DIY crafts to festive games, if you’re seeking festive ideas to shape your Christmas activities, we’ve compiled a collection of simple and exciting Christmas-themed activities designed specifically for toddlers in childcare. These activities are simple to do at home and packed with joy.
Get ready to create beautiful holiday memories while helping your little ones grow and learn!
20+ Fun Learning Activities for Toddlers this Christmas
1. Decorating the Christmas Tree
One of the most beloved holiday traditions is decorating the Christmas tree. This activity is especially engaging for toddlers because it allows them to actively participate in preparing the tree for the festive season.
Encourage your toddler to hang soft, non-breakable ornaments on the lower branches, while placing more fragile decorations higher up.
Additionally, let them have the honour of placing the tree topper, which makes for a memorable moment and a perfect photo opportunity. Below are a few simple yet charming ornament craft ideas to make with your toddler. These crafts will not only personalize your Christmas tree but also create lasting memories:
Beaded Candy Canes:
Hand your toddler red and white beads and let them thread them onto a pipe cleaner. Once complete, twist the pipe cleaner into the shape of a candy cane.
Paper Cup Christmas Trees:
Affordable, mess-free, and ideal for young children, these are perfect for playdates and group activities. Toddlers and preschoolers will enjoy making these adorable ornaments. A step-by-step guide to crafting Paper Cup Christmas Trees is available to help.
Salt Dough Ornaments:
Combine one cup of salt, flour, and water to make salt dough. After rolling it out, let your toddler shape the dough using cookie cutters. Once the ornaments dry and harden, your child can decorate them with paint.
Christmas Paint Kit:
Inspire your toddler’s creativity with a Christmas Paint Kit. This kit allows children to paint and design unique ornaments that add a colourful touch to the tree.
These crafting activities allow toddlers to express their creativity while adding a personal and adorable flair to your holiday decorations. Always ensure that the materials you use are child-friendly and non-toxic, and supervise your toddler during crafting.
Also, make sure to embrace the joyous mess and cherish these shared moments. Happy tree decorating!
2. DIY Christmas Cards
Making DIY Christmas cards with your toddler is a joyful way to share the festive spirit and add a personal touch to your greetings. This creative activity allows your child’s imagination to take center stage. Here’s how you can craft unique holiday cards with your little one:
Collect the Materials:
- Begin with folded cardstock paper or blank cards to serve as the card base.
- Gather supplies such as crayons, colored pencils, watercolors, markers, or any other art tools your toddler enjoys.
- Include holiday-themed stickers and stamps for added decoration.
- Have kid-friendly glue sticks and safety scissors ready for attaching craft materials.
Pick a Theme:
- Look for creative card designs online for inspiration. Many craft blogs and websites provide free templates and holiday card ideas.
- Use handprint or footprint art to make memorable cards. For instance, a tiny footprint can be transformed into a reindeer design (step-by-step tutorials are available online).
- You can also create photo cards using recent holiday-themed pictures of your toddler or a festive family snapshot for a personal touch.
Add a Message:
- Let your toddler include their message or doodles on the card. Their scribbles or handwriting will give each card a unique charm.
Decorate Envelopes:
- Don’t overlook the envelopes! Encourage your child to embellish them with handprints, drawings, or stickers, making each envelope just as delightful as the card itself.
Share the Cards:
- Send out your handmade cards to family and friends to spread joy and connection. Mailing these heartfelt creations is a beautiful way to brighten someone’s day, especially if you’re celebrating apart.
For more inspiration and templates, platforms like Canva, Etsy, and Pinterest offer numerous ideas for crafting holiday cards. This engaging activity not only spreads happiness but also creates cherished keepsakes to treasure for years. Enjoy the festive fun and make lasting memories with your toddler!
3. Gingerbread House Decorating
Decorating gingerbread houses is a beloved holiday tradition that captivates kids and adults alike. This festive activity merges creativity with the chance to nibble on sweet treats. With the convenience of pre-made Gingerbread House Kits, busy parents can dive straight into the fun without the hassle of baking.
What You’ll Need:
- Gingerbread House Kit: Stores like Target, Big W, and Coles often stock affordable kits.
- Additional Decorations: While kits include basic supplies, consider adding extra candies, sprinkles, and edible embellishments to expand your decorating options.
How to Get Started:
- Prepare the Icing: Start by making or preparing the icing included in the kit. This will act as the glue for building and decorating the gingerbread house. For a playful touch, use food coloring to create icing in different hues.
- Set Up the Workspace: Cover your table with newspaper or a disposable tablecloth to keep the mess contained. Arrange candies, sprinkles, and tools within easy reach for convenience.
- Construct the House: If your kit requires assembly, carefully piece together the gingerbread house using icing. Let the structure dry for a bit to ensure it stays sturdy.
- Decorate Freely: Give your toddler the freedom to decorate as they like. They can create candy cane fences, sprinkle-covered roofs, or gummy bear pathways. Let their imagination take charge!
- Guide and Support: Supervise as needed, particularly with assembling tricky parts. Encourage your child to take ownership of their masterpiece for a sense of accomplishment.
- Capture the Moment: Take photos to document the process and the final creation. These snapshots will become treasured keepsakes.
Decorating a gingerbread house is more than just a festive pastime; it’s a chance to foster creativity, develop motor skills, and bond with your little one. Together, you’ll build not only a beautiful holiday centerpiece but also cherished memories.
4. Festive Baking
Festive baking is a heartwarming holiday activity that brings the family together while creating delicious seasonal treats. Involving your toddler in baking adds excitement and fun to your holiday preparations.
Here’s how to make the most of your toddler’s and child’s festive baking experience for fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas:
Recipe Ideas:
- Opt for simple and classic recipes like sugar cookies, brownies, or gingerbread cookies. These options often involve fun tasks such as rolling dough, cutting shapes with cookie cutters, and decorating.
- Health-conscious families can try baking wholesome treats like whole-grain muffins, banana bread, or oatmeal cookies with festive ingredients like dried cranberries or chopped nuts.
Kid-Friendly Tasks:
- Assign your toddler roles suited to their age and abilities. Let them help mix the batter, measure ingredients, or shape the dough using cookie cutters. They’ll love sprinkling decorations or placing cookie shapes on the baking tray.
Creative Decorations:
- Once the treats have cooled, set up a decorating station filled with colorful toppings like icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter. Encourage your child to get creative and decorate however they please.
Inspiration Online:
- Discover new recipes and ideas on websites like BBC Good Food, Taste of Home, or Delish, which offer countless kid-friendly holiday recipes. For a creative touch, try making Christmas Tree Brownies, a fun project that combines baking and decorating.
Festive baking isn’t just about making delicious desserts just like that. It’s a beautiful way to create lasting memories and share the joy of the holiday season with your little one. Put on your aprons, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy this delightful holiday tradition!
5. Christmas Games as Fun Learning Activities for Toddlers this Christmas
Playing Christmas-themed games is a fantastic way to keep your toddler engaged and entertained during the holidays. Here are some delightful ideas for Christmas games for fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas:
i. Candy Cane Treasure Hunt
Hide candy canes around your home or yard and let your toddler search for them in a festive treasure hunt. To make it more exciting, set a timer or create a team challenge to see who can find the most candy canes.
ii. Rudolph Nose Game
Make a poster of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer without his signature red nose. Create removable red noses with tape. Blindfold your toddler, spin them gently, and let them try to pin the nose on Rudolph in the right spot.
iii. Festive Bingo
Print Christmas-themed Bingo cards from online resources and play a fun game with your toddler. This activity is excellent for improving vocabulary and matching skills.
iv. Santa Says
Add a festive twist to “Simon Says” with Christmas-themed commands. For example, “Santa says, march like a toy soldier” or “Santa says, twirl like a snowflake.”
v. Freeze Dancing to Christmas Tunes
Play lively Christmas music and have your toddler dance around. When the music stops, they must freeze in place like a Christmas statue. This is a great way to let them burn off energy while having fun.
These entertaining Christmas games help toddlers develop skills like coordination, listening, and creativity. Most importantly, they bring plenty of holiday cheer to your home. Enjoy the festive fun with your little one!
6. Group Activities in Childcare as Fun Learning Activities for Toddlers this Christmas
Integrating group activities in childcare settings is very important for fostering the social, emotional, and cognitive development of young children. There are numerous group-centred and fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas that you can incorporate into a child’s festive schedule.
Here are some suggestions you might consider adding to the fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas:
i. Cookie Decorating as a Group
A simple yet enjoyable way to promote collaboration and teamwork is through cookie decorating. Most children love any activity that ends with a delicious treat! Organize a decorating table with plain cookies, frosting, and child-safe decorations, allowing the children to decorate their cookies together.
This activity encourages kids to share supplies, exchange creative ideas, and learn patience while waiting their turn. Collaborating on cookie designs helps children explore new perspectives and develop social skills like cooperation.
ii. Community Christmas Tree Decoration
If the kids have been busy creating Christmas ornaments, setting up a community Christmas tree provides a fantastic way to display their handiwork. As the group works together to decorate the tree, they naturally practice important social skills such as taking turns, sharing, respecting each other’s opinions, and working as a team.
Festive-themed group activities like these break away from the routine and also foster creativity, community spirit, and learning in childcare environments. Moreover, these programs are an excellent way to embrace the holiday season and make it a joyful experience for the children.
7. Group Music and Movement Activities as Fun Learning Activities for Toddlers this Christmas
Introducing music and movement into childcare enriches the educational journey while fostering emotional development and essential skills. These activities promote a lively, fun-filled learning experience for children.
Here’s how you can infuse the Christmas spirit into group music, movement activities, and fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas:
i. Holiday Dance Party
Hosting a Christmas-themed dance party is an excellent way to immerse children in the holiday cheer. Set the mood with festive decorations and music, encouraging kids to explore their creativity and express themselves through movement in a group setting. This interactive activity strengthens social bonds and builds confidence.
ii. Christmas Morning Tea
Alternatively, you could organize a Christmas morning tea, inviting parents and families to join. This event can serve as an opportunity to celebrate children’s achievements and display their Christmas-themed crafts prepared in advance. Such gatherings create a sense of community and pride for the children.
iii. Christmas Sing-Along Sessions
Engaging children in singing holiday classics like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” or “Jingle Bells” can boost their literacy and language skills through rhythmic patterns and repetition.
Enhance the experience by adding instruments or simple movements like clapping and dancing, which foster coordination, body awareness, and balance.
By incorporating these holiday-themed ideas and fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas, childcare settings can offer meaningful, festive experiences that nurture children’s growth while celebrating the season.
8. Storytime for Building Connections as Fun Learning Activities for Toddlers this Christmas
While activities that allow children to get messy and unleash their creativity can be exciting, it’s equally crucial to incorporate other activities, such as storytime, into their daily routine. Storytime not only fosters early language skills but also helps children form meaningful connections.
Below are fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas that are in the category of storytime and storytelling:
i. Interactive Christmas-Themed Books
Storytime with toddlers can be enriched by including captivating Christmas-themed books. These stories not only enhance literacy and language development but also become more engaging when interactive elements are added, such as asking thought-provoking questions or incorporating props related to the story.
Share timeless holiday stories with your toddlers using classics such as Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Clement C. Moore’s The Night Before Christmas never fail to spark the imagination and holiday spirit.
ii. Group Puppet Storytelling
To make storytelling even more immersive, create puppets representing the characters in the book being read. As a group, children can act out the story using these puppets, which promotes teamwork and supports social-emotional learning by teaching them to engage in collaborative activities.
iii. Christmas-Themed Dress-Up Day Inspired by Books
After exploring a variety of Christmas-themed books during story-time, plan a dress-up day where children can transform into characters like Santa, reindeer, or elves by wearing hats, antlers, or festive costumes.
This activity not only nurtures imaginative play which is not only important for social and emotional growth, but also provides children with opportunities for self-expression and boosts their confidence.
iv. Advent Calendar Books
Create a unique advent calendar using books. Wrap up 24 holiday-themed stories, one for each day leading up to Christmas. Unwrapping and reading a new book daily keeps your toddler excited and engaged throughout the season.
v. Gift of Reading
Make a tradition of giving your toddler a holiday-themed book every year. Over time, these books can transform into beloved keepsakes that your child will eagerly anticipate revisiting each holiday season.
vi. Personalised Stories
Look for or craft a customized Christmas story that features your toddler as the protagonist. These personalized tales are not only heartwarming but also serve as delightful mementos that your family can cherish for years.
vii. Pyjama Party
Turn story-time into a festive event with a Christmas pajama party. Dress in holiday-themed PJs, and let your toddler’s favorite stuffed animals join in as honorary guests for the storytelling session.
By making holiday storytime a magical and heartwarming tradition, you’re not only cultivating your toddler’s love for reading but also establishing a ritual filled with joy and connection. Embrace these special moments of bonding and storytelling this holiday season!
9. Sensory Play for Group Exploration as Fun Learning Activities for Toddlers this Christmas
Engaging in sensory play activities fosters essential aspects of development and learning, making it a vital part of early childhood experiences. Below are some ideas and fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas for integrating sensory play into your Christmas-themed activities.
i. Scented Play Dough Station
A scented play dough station offers a simple yet exciting way to introduce sensory experiences during the holiday season. Incorporate festive scents like peppermint or cinnamon and add vibrant colors to match the Christmas theme.
Designate a play dough area where children can collaborate and explore together. Include Christmas-themed cutters and accessories to encourage creativity while enhancing their fine motor skills and coordination.
ii. Christmas Sensory Bin
Prepare sensory bins containing materials such as jingle bells, soft pinecones, small ornaments, and artificial snow. To elevate the experience, add Christmas scents like peppermint or cinnamon for a multi-sensory exploration.
These sensory bins aid cognitive growth, discovery, and language development. Children learn new vocabulary as they describe textures, smells, and the unique items in the bin, promoting both exploration and communication.
10. Creative Craft Ideas for Group Participation as Fun Learning Activities for Toddlers this Christmas
Engaging in group fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas gives toddlers an excellent chance to develop essential foundational abilities. Create joyful Christmas crafts to decorate your home or gift to loved ones on Christmas Day. These activities encourage creativity and are perfect for bonding with your toddler.
These crafts also help to build strong skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and social interaction. Below are some exciting Christmas-themed ideas and fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas to inspire group participation:
i. Handprint Christmas Trees
Handprint Christmas trees are a simple yet enjoyable activity that captivates children while developing their fine motor skills and coordination. This craft also serves as a memorable keepsake for parents or an excellent decoration for the center, boosting the children’s confidence and pride in their work.
To create these, you’ll need aprons to reduce mess, non-toxic paints, and sturdy paper or cards for the handprints. The process is not only engaging but also fosters self-expression and teamwork.
ii. Collaborative Ornament Making
Ornament-making activities bring joy to children, especially as they contribute to decorating a Christmas tree. These crafts help toddlers refine their fine motor skills and practice decision-making while stimulating their imagination.
You can prepare a child-friendly Christmas tree with soft, non-breakable ornaments that they can hang, arrange, and rearrange. Materials like foam balls felt, or paper plates work well as bases for the decorations. This hands-on activity not only keeps the kids engaged but also builds their sense of accomplishment.
iii. Paper Plate Wreath
Start with a simple paper plate by cutting out its center. Let your toddler decorate the outer ring with paint, glitter, or festive decorations. Add a ribbon for hanging, and you have a charming handmade wreath for your holiday decor.
iv. Santa Advent Calendar
A Santa-themed advent calendar is a fun way to count down to Christmas. Each day, your toddler can stick a piece of cotton wool onto Santa’s beard. So, this not only excites them for Christmas but also teaches basic counting skills. You can follow a guide like this one to get started.
v. Christmas Tree Fingerprint Art
Encourage your toddler’s artistic side with fingerprint art. Using a blank canvas and some paint, help them create a colorful Christmas tree. Their fingerprints will form the tree’s “leaves,” which will result in a one-of-a-kind holiday masterpiece.
vi. String of Lights Photo Frame
Turn a photo frame into festive decor with a “String of Lights” design. Using finger paints, your toddler can create the appearance of a string of colorful holiday lights. Add a family photo to complete this heartfelt decoration. Check out this adorable example for inspiration.
vii. Letter to Santa
Let the holiday magic come alive by helping your toddler write a letter to Santa. Use a free printable template to guide them. Your child can share their wishes and express their excitement for the season. Sending the letter will surely bring smiles all around.
These creative crafts are perfect for fostering holiday excitement, bonding with your child, and creating keepsakes to treasure for years. Also, these creative ideas and fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas ensure that group engagement is both fun and educational during the holiday season.
11. Christmas Movie Night
Turn an ordinary evening into a magical Christmas movie night with your toddler. This festive tradition is a wonderful way to enjoy holiday classics and create cherished memories. Below are fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas that are to be done for Christmas movie night:
Choosing the Films
Pick Christmas movies that are suitable for your toddler. Options like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Polar Express, and Frosty the Snowman are perfect. For older children, family-friendly hits like Elf or Home Alone work well.
Cozy Atmosphere
Transform your space into a cozy movie-watching area. Lay out soft blankets, and pillows, or even set up a fort or a play tent. A warm and inviting setup makes the experience extra special.
Festive Treats
Prepare some delightful snacks. Serve hot chocolate with marshmallows or make themed treats like gingerbread cookies, reindeer-shaped crackers, or snowman-shaped sandwiches. These snacks will add to the festive charm.
Watching the Movie
Dim the lights and use LED candles to create a warm ambiance. Let your toddler interact with the film by singing along to songs or pointing out festive details like Santa or reindeer.
A Christmas movie night is a relaxing and memorable way to enjoy the holiday season with your toddler. It’s an opportunity to unwind, share timeless holiday stories, and strengthen family bonds.
12. Visit Santa
Taking your toddler to meet Santa Claus is a timeless Christmas tradition filled with magic and joy. This cherished experience can create memories that last a lifetime. Here’s how to make the visit truly special:
Choose the Perfect Spot:
Look for a location where your toddler can see Father Christmas, such as community centers, department stores, or shopping malls. Pick a venue with a warm and friendly atmosphere to ensure your child feels at ease.
Get Your Toddler Ready:
Talk to your toddler beforehand about meeting Santa. Share stories or watch movies about Santa Claus to build their excitement. Encourage them to think of a Christmas wish or questions they might want to ask Santa.
Plan the Timing:
Schedule the visit at a time that suits your toddler’s routine. Try to avoid mealtimes or naptimes to ensure they are in their best mood and can fully enjoy the experience.
Capture the Memories:
Bring along a camera or smartphone to take photos. Be prepared to capture their expressions as they interact with Santa so that it can be a moment you can treasure forever.
Dress Up Festively:
Choose a festive yet comfortable outfit for your toddler. A cheerful Christmas sweater or outfit makes the occasion even more special and enhances photo opportunities.
Manage Waiting Time:
If there’s a queue to meet Santa, keep your toddler entertained with a small toy, snack, or book. Singing Christmas songs or playing simple games can also help pass the time.
Let Your Toddler Take the Lead:
As you approach Santa, observe your toddler’s reactions. Some children will run forward with excitement, while others may be more cautious. Allow them to interact with Santa at their own pace, even if it means watching other children first.
Photograph the Moment:
Take a few pictures, but don’t force your child to pose if they’re uncomfortable. If they don’t want to sit on Santa’s lap, having them nearby or standing next to Santa works just as well.
Encourage Interaction:
When it’s their turn, gently prompt your toddler to share their Christmas wishes or simply say hello. It’s okay if they’re shy or prefer to stay quiet because the experience itself is what counts.
Reflect and Share:
After the visit, talk to your child about what they enjoyed. Discuss their feelings and remind them how special it was to meet Santa, reinforcing the magic of the holiday season.
Meeting Santa is a wonderful way to immerse your toddler in the festive spirit, creating joyful memories for years to come.
13. Holiday Charity and Giving
Teaching your toddler the importance of giving back during the holiday season is a meaningful and touching tradition. It fosters empathy, kindness, and a sense of responsibility, all while spreading happiness to those in need. Below are the fun learning activities for toddlers this Christmas for holiday charity and giving:
i. Toy and Clothing Donation
Get your toddler involved in a toy or clothing drive for children in need. Together, go through their gently used toys and clothes, selecting items to donate. Explain that these items will bring joy to other children who will appreciate them just as much.
To make the experience more real for your little one, take them along when dropping off the donations at the collection site.
ii. Food Donation
Help your toddler participate in a food drive to support families struggling to afford meals. Take them shopping for non-perishable food items and let them choose which items they think other children would enjoy.
Then, drop off the donations at a food bank or another collection location. Explain how their contributions will help families enjoy a special holiday meal.
iii. Homemade Gifts
Encourage your toddler to create personalized handmade gifts for family and friends. Whether it’s crafting a heartfelt card or making simple decorations, these thoughtful gifts carry sentimental value and teach the importance of giving from the heart.
iv. Kindness Calendar
Create a “Kindness Advent Calendar” together. Each day, open a new door that reveals a kind deed your child can do. These actions can include complimenting others, helping around the house, or sharing toys with siblings. This not only promotes the spirit of giving but also establishes a habit of kindness throughout the season.
v. Volunteer Together
Volunteer as a family in local charity events or service activities. Whether it’s packing meals for people in need, assisting with community cleanup, or helping at an animal shelter, your toddler can join in, learning the joy of giving their time and energy.
vi. Count Your Blessings
Create a “Blessings Jar” where each day, your toddler can place a note expressing something they are grateful for. At the end of the season, read the notes together and discuss how thankful you are for the good things in your life.
This simple practice helps children develop an appreciation for what they have and teaches them the value of helping others.
Incorporating the spirit of giving back during the holiday season can become a meaningful family tradition. It makes a difference in the lives of others and teaches valuable life lessons, helping your toddler grow into a compassionate and caring individual.
The Takeaway
This Christmas, make the holiday season even more enchanting by involving your toddlers and preschoolers in delightful learning activities. The ideas in this article are designed to spark creativity and happiness, filling your home with warmth and unforgettable memories.
From engaging in holiday crafts to enjoying Christmas-themed movie nights and decorating the tree, these fun-filled activities strengthen family bonds while embracing the spirit of love and togetherness.
Whether it’s singing festive songs, crafting ornaments, or exploring playful learning games, these simple activities bring the magic of the season to life and allow your little ones to develop important skills in an enjoyable way.
By weaving these cheerful ideas into your holiday traditions, you’ll be offering your children the invaluable gift of fun and education. Additionally, take the opportunity to nurture their sense of generosity by teaching them the value of sharing and spreading kindness during this festive time.
As your toddlers dive into these wonderful activities, don’t forget to document the moments with photos or videos. In years to come, these snapshots will bring back fond memories of the cherished times spent together during the holiday season.
Let’s make this Christmas truly memorable with activities that ignite both your toddlers’ imaginations and their love for learning!