The week between Christmas and New Year — often called “Twixmas” — can feel like a strange mix of leftover holiday magic and complete chaos. Parents are tired, kids are over-stimulated, and routines are nowhere to be found. If you’re wondering how to keep your little ones entertained while you recover from the whirlwind of Christmas, on this week’s blog are some simple, low-pressure ideas to make this week fun, relaxing, and memorable for everyone.
DIY Craft Station with Leftovers
Put that leftover wrapping paper, ribbons, and cardboard boxes to good use!
Ideas to try:
Let kids decorate a “castle” made from boxes with crayons, stickers, and leftover wrapping supplies.
Make paper crowns or masks using leftover wrapping paper and ribbons.
Create festive collages using Christmas cards, paper scraps, and glue.
Great for: Low prep, minimal cost, and keeps little hands busy while you sip a nice cup of tea.
Post-Christmas Family Movie Marathon
Take advantage of the quieter days and create a cozy movie day at home.
Pile blankets, pillows, and cuddly toys into a “family movie fort.”
Pick a mix of festive favorites (our favourites include Muppets Christmas Carol and Aurthur Christmast) and movies the kids love.
Make it feel special with easy homemade snacks like popcorn, hot chocolate, or leftover christmas treats.
Top tip: Maybe you can even sneak a little afternoon nap while the movie is on!
Box Play — Endless Imagination!
Does your child prefer the box to the toy that arrived in it?! Empty boxes can be magic for little ones! Turn them into:
A rocket ship
A puppet theatre
A racing car
A baby’s play area with sensory toys inside.
Let their imagination run wild with simple prompts, and don’t worry about the mess.
Winter Nature Walk and Treasure Hunt
If the weather allows, getting outdoors can work wonders for everyone’s mood.
Create a simple “Winter Hunt” checklist:
A pinecone
A bird in a tree
Footprints in the mud/snow
A stick shaped like a letter
Bring home a few small treasures (pinecones, leaves) and make a craft out of them later.
Why it works: Fresh air and movement help calm over-stimulated little ones (and tired parents).
Quiet Time Activities for a Calm Reset
Create a little quiet corner for when everyone needs a slower pace. Ideas include:
Simple puzzles
Sticker books or coloring books
Playdough with cookie cutters
Reading stories together under a blanket
Try this too: Set up a “cozy corner” with a blanket and fairy lights to make it extra special.
Post-Christmas Dance Party
If the whether’s rubbish why not burn off some energy with a mini living room disco.
Put on that party playlist!
Let them pick “silly dance moves” and join in when you feel up to it.
Add scarves or streamers for a bit of flair!
Why it’s so great: Quick bursts of activity help with post-Christmas energy slumps (and might even help them sleep later!).
Toy Rotation Magic
New toys can be overwhelming for kids and parents. Simplify things:
Tuck some toys away and “rotate” them in a few weeks to keep them exciting.
Encourage kids to pick 2-3 toys to play with each day.
Create “play zones” — a space for trains, a reading nook, or a play kitchen corner.
Bonus: Less toy clutter for you to trip over!
Get Kids Involved in the Kitchen
Simple cooking or baking activities can keep kids entertained and help you manage leftovers.
Make fun snacks like “snowman toast” (cream cheese, banana slices, and raisins).
Let them “help” make easy leftover turkey sandwiches or decorate cookies.
Great because: Keeps kids busy, teaches a skill, and everyone gets a snack!
Prep for a Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve
Turn New Year’s Eve into a kid-friendly event they’ll remember:
Early countdowns: Celebrate at 6 or 8 PM with a fake countdown.
Make DIY party hats or shakers using leftover supplies.
Create a “Memory Jar” for 2024 — write down favourite moments from this year together.
Embrace the Chaos and Rest
It’s okay to let kids watch a bit more TV, stay in pjs all day, or have breakfast for dinner. Christmas week is about slowing down and spending time together — so don’t feel pressured to over-plan.
Sometimes, the simplest moments — snuggles on the couch, giggles during craft time, or family walks — are the ones you and your children will treasure the most.