What are your holiday priorities?

We are all busy this time of year. Use this worksheet to help your family clarify the traditions they hold dear, eliminate any that are not as fun anymore and possibly find some new traditions they might want to start. Sit down with your whole family (little kids too!) and use these questions to spark a great discussion.

1. What is your favorite holiday tradition?

2. Which activity did you enjoy most last year?

3. What was your least favorite activity?

4. What went well last year? Did you make changes that helped things go more smoothly?

5. What caused the most stress for you last year? Were there too many activities? Did your regular household chores fall by the wayside?

6. What are your expectations for the holiday season?

7. Are there any activities (things friends did, you read about or saw) that you would like to try this year?

Here are some holiday tradition ideas:

* Holiday movie night

* Books to read as a family

* Baking

* Secret gifts to neighbors, friends

* Create a Holiday “Idea Book” of things to try

* Make gifts for family and friends, helps kids appreciate the holiday more

* Cookie (or candy, ornaments etc.) exchange with friends and family

* Christmas Eve present (pajamas are a good one!)

* Annual ornament—something each child can take with them when they have their first tree in their own home!

* Drive around the neighborhood with the best lights, or head to an area light display

* Make an old-fashioned popcorn garland or gingerbread house. Buy a kit if you are not a baker, decorating the house is the fun part!

* Go to the grocery, department or toy store with the whole family and choose some items to donate to a local charity.