Christmas brings back a lot of happy childhood memories for me. Decorating the tree and hanging decorations on the ceiling, provided hours of entertainment. As the years have passed by, the simplicity of Christmas seems to have been lost and now revolves around our busy schedules with minimal spare time and money.

Each Christmas my youngest son used to love having his photo taken in front of this huge tree in Myer
Here are 12 of my favourite ideas for making some memorable Christmas traditions with your children. These are all frugal ideas with minimal cost involved and by doing even a couple of these activities, you are giving your child something better than any Christmas present. Quality family time.
1. Spend a day at the beach and make sand angels
Pack a picnic lunch and have a fun family day out. Don't forget the cold drinks and sunscreen!
2. Go for a drive to see some Christmas lights
You could try your local neighbourhood or the city, which usually have impressive displays over the holidays.

Image courtesy of morgueFile.com
3. Watch a Christmas movie
Some family friendly choices include:
The Grinch Who Stole Christmas
The Polar Express
A Muppet Christmas Carol
Jingle All The Way
If you want to get fancy, enjoy the movie with some popcorn and hot chocolate.
4. Bake and decorate biscuits
Get busy in the kitchen and bake some biscuits.

Image courtesy of morgueFile.com
5. Donate a gift to someone in need
It is a good feeling giving to those in need over Christmas,
Kmart run a wishing tree appeal, distributing gifts. My family and I donate to where you can fill a shoe box with toys, clothing or hygiene items which are then sent to impoverished children in South-East Asia.
6. Have a sleepover under the Christmas tree
Pull out an inflatable mattress, pillows and blankets and enjoy a sleepover under the glittering lights of your Christmas tree.
7. Make some Christmas crafts
Visit
My Kid Craft for some fun and inspiring ideas.
8. Multicultural Christmas
Choose a country somewhere in the world and use a search engine to learn all about how Christmas is celebrated there.
9. Visit your local library and borrow some Christmas books
Then snuggle up each night with a new story.

Reading Christmas books are a nice way to get into the spirit of Christmas
10. Watch a Christmas parade
If there isn't one in your town, watch one on YouTube.
11. Make some edible gifts to give to friends
Pull out your Christmas recipes and make a plate of goodies to give to some friends. If you are lacking ideas
Taste.com has some fabulous recipes.

Surprise the kids with Christmas shaped pancakes for breakfast
12. Cook Xmas pancakes for breakfast
This is simple to do. Just grease and place down some metal cookie cutters into your frying pan, then pour in the pancake batter.
Most of all enjoy the holidays and have fun making memories with your family.
#Christmas
#Creative
#Family
#Any Age