The holidays are the most magical time of year—but let’s be real, for moms, they’re also the busiest. Between juggling work, sports, school events, and the endless to-do lists, it can feel overwhelming. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be perfect to be magical. With a few simple hacks, you can create those special holiday moments for your kids without losing your sanity.
Here are my top 5 Christmas hacks for moms with small kids:
Hack #1: Include the Kids in Holiday Baking
Yes, I know. Having the kids “help” in the kitchen means flour everywhere and twice as much time to finish. But here’s the magic: you’re creating memories they’ll cherish forever and crossing “holiday treats” off your to-do list at the same time.
Expert Mom Hack: Turn cleanup into a game! Crank up the holiday tunes, grab some festive aprons, and turn it into a dance party. The mess won’t feel as overwhelming when everyone’s laughing and singing along to “Jingle Bell Rock.”
Hack #2: Gift Wrapping Movie Nights
Instead of wrapping gifts solo at midnight (we’ve all been there), make it a family affair. Pop on a holiday movie, grab some kid-friendly wrapping paper, and let them help with easy-to-wrap items like books or toys for cousins. They’ll feel included, and you’ll check another chore off the list.
Hack #3: Keep Holiday Activities Simple
Pinterest-worthy holiday crafts are great, but they’re not always realistic. Instead, pick one or two simple activities like making salt-dough ornaments or paper snowflakes. Just last week I found pre-made gingerbread houses and skipped that step and went straight to creating with the kids. Remember the idea is to simplify as much as possible all while still having fun. Bonus points if you make it a competition: The winner gets an extra marshmallow in their hot cocoa!
Hack #4: Create a Holiday “Go Bag”
Between sports practices, holiday parties, and last-minute errands, life can feel nonstop. Keep a holiday-themed “go bag” packed with snacks, a water bottle, and small toys or books to keep the kids entertained during all the hustle and bustle. A small candy cane bribe? Totally allowed.
Hack #5: Let Go of Perfection
This is the most important hack of all. Your kids won’t remember if the tree was perfectly decorated or if the cookies were slightly burnt. What they’ll remember is the laughter, the traditions, and the time you spent together. Embrace the chaos, laugh at the mishaps, and soak in the magic.
Christmas with little ones is a beautiful, busy, and sometimes messy season. But with these simple hacks, you can tackle the hustle and bustle and create magical moments that your kids will treasure forever.
What’s your go-to holiday hack for surviving the season with kids? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear how you make the holidays magical in your home!
Cami
My Life. My Journey. 
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