The holidays are not always the best time of year for teenagers. They do not always want to participate in family gatherings and traditions. While the holidays may seem childish or pointless to some teenagers, come up with ways to get them involved in the holiday festivities.
First and foremost, bake Christmas cookies with the teenagers in your life. Everyone loves Christmas cookies, and it can be a challenge to successfully bake them. It is also a rewarding experience and allows you to bond with your teen. Let them pick out their favorite kind of cookies. Go shopping together for the ingredients. Make the most of the bonding time in the kitchen.
Traditions dominate the holiday season. Involve your teen in the traditions of your house. From writing Christmas cards to building a gingerbread house, traditions will be remembered for years to come. Even if the teenager protests to having to participate, they will still remember the experience in years to come and someday even carry the traditions on to their own family.
Volunteering is a great way to get involved with the holiday spirit. From helping the elderly at a local nursing home to donating slightly used children’s books to the library, giving back to the community and others is a true virtue of the holiday season. Volunteering teaches teenagers the true meaning of the season and helps them appreciate their life.
Decorate your home together. Buy some Christmas lights or find do-it-yourself projects to decorate with holiday spirit. Teenagers may find enjoyment in untangling strings of lights or decorating a Christmas tree.
Attend family gatherings. While visiting with the grandparents and long distance relatives may not be anyone’s favorite activity, encourage your teenager to come with you to these events. They will witness the love of their family and may learn interesting facts about their ancestors. Family gatherings are a great way to bring everyone together, including the teenagers of the family.
Have a holiday movie marathon. From classics like A Christmas Story to National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, these movies will help your teen get into the holiday spirit.
Gifts are always a staple to the holiday season. Many times, gifts can add up and hit the bank account. Think of fun, do-it-yourself gifts that you and the teen in your life can make together. You can create fun ways to give to others and the two of you will enjoy the time bonding together.
The activities that surround the holidays are endless. Take the time to get the teen in your life involved. You will make memories and build traditions.
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