The holiday season is full of Kodak moments. There’s the perfectly color-coordinated family card. Pics of the kids visiting winter wonderlands, holiday markets, extended relatives, and the Big Guy in red. Dozens where they’re tearing into presents, quickly followed by shots of them beaming alongside their haul. You stand behind the camera. Snap, snap, snap. Honestly, they should offer photography lessons as part of those what-to-expect baby classes (not to mention letting people know about the Tinybeans App for organizing and sharing all those sweet images).

But beyond the traditional photo ops, there are plenty more precious moments you should capture for your family album. I’m talking about the best images—the ones that show the quirks and real beauty of your family. One day you’ll see them and remember your kids as they were, not who people expected them to be. So this year, seek out the real holiday magic. Here’s a list to get you started!

1. Kids happily collapsed on the couch or in a car seat

After dinner, after presents, and after family parties, there are a few moments of magical stillness. The kids have eaten. The kids have run around. Excitement has drifted into quiet.

Yes, the high-octane moments are awesome. But there’s something extra special about this sudden, blissful hush. That feeling of: We did it, we’re tired, we packed a lot of life into a short time, and now we’re going to sleep it off. That’s what you want to remember right before the quiet explodes into an exhausted tantrum.

2. Siblings secretly getting along

It happens when you’re least expecting it. They’re baking cookies or opening presents or adding batteries to the newest blinking, shouting toy. Suddenly, your oldest is helping the youngest, or your toddler is excitedly explaining Santa to his woefully uneducated baby sister. They’re not teasing each other, shouting “mine!” or rolling their eyes. Snap it quickly: They’ll start battling over their new Furby in two minutes.

3. Action shots instead of finished products

The fun of cookies and crafting isn’t in the final designs, though we never turn down an unhinged-looking gingerbread man. It’s all about the doing—the tiny mountains of glitter all over your kitchen table, the flour caking your kid’s hands, the icing on their face. So go ahead and snap pics of those treats when they’re finished, but don’t forget the messy moments that got you there. One day (long after you’ve cleaned up the kidsplosion), you’ll love them.

4. Grandparents deep in discussion (or toys) with grandkids

Those posed photos of kids on Grandpa’s lap? They’re cute. But if your father-in-law is anything like mine, his forced grin is more terrifying than sweet. And if your kids are anything like mine, they’ll be squirming to get away. Rather than make everyone stop what they’re doing to slap on a smile, keep a lookout for that moment when a grandparent leans in to make the kids giggle or plops down on the floor to play or holds out a forkful of pie. Capture that instead.

5. Kids giving gifts—not just opening them

We all love the tearing-into-gift photos. Wrapping paper flies. Grins can’t be contained. Bows are stuck on people’s heads. But there’s a slight variation you should add to your shot list for the family album: your kids giving presents instead of getting them. Remember waiting for your dad to open the gift you made just for him and how excited you were?! Even if your little one is just helping hand out presents to other family members, snap those generous gestures. The giftee(s) will be glad you did.

Related: 11 Less Obvious Picks That Should Make It Into Every Baby’s Photo Album

6. Family photo session outtakes

All those posed photos? Adorable. The ones of kids making faces or unintentionally being weirdos? Better, because they capture the silliness and imperfections of those we love most. My relatives all agree that our best Christmas card ever—which my mother puts up every year—is the one that reads “Ho-Ho-No!” and features our eldest son (back when he was a baby) losing it on Saint Nick. I still feel twinges of guilt about that one, but it’s real. I like it better than all those smiling portraits, because it’s us.

7. A photo with you in it

While we all love that jolly fellow, Santa isn’t the source of Christmas magic. Moms are the do-it-all elves who make the holidays happen. So hand over the camera phone to someone else for a change. You deserve pictures with your kids. One day, they’ll want them. One day, so will you.

So much of this season is a whirlwind—which is why it just makes sense to go with it. Rather than manufacture joy, capture the in-between times, the unplanned exchanges, and the laugh-so-hard-it-hurts moments. That beautiful mess? That’s the real spirit of the holidays.

Make sure to capture all these blink-and-you’ll-miss-’em moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids and makes it easier than ever to turn them into a keepsake photo book.

When I was growing up in the ‘80s and ‘90s, Santa had a full, white, fluffy beard; a rounded stomach; and rosy cheeks. He was also always white. As a child, I didn’t think anything of it. But when I became a mom, the idea of what “classic Santa” should look like changed.

My husband and I always knew we would have children. But after a near-death experience and autoimmune diagnosis in my mid-20s, we decided that adoption was our best option. On a balmy November Saturday, we got the call that would change our lives. A birth mother had chosen us to adopt her baby—a Black girl. We were giddy; we furiously packed and traveled four hours to meet our new daughter.

Six weeks later, she would experience her first Christmas. It was during this holiday season that we noticed the serious lack of brown-skinned representation in décor, advertisements, books, cards, and more. Why was Santa always a white man? Yes, we know the history of Saint Nicholas, but the Santas we see today (and have seen for years) are representations—not the actual Santa. Why couldn’t he be Black like our daughter?

Santa is a symbol of generosity, joy, and hope. He is magical, jolly, and accepting. Because Santa embodies Christmas magic, why shouldn’t his exterior represent the diversity of the children he loves?

Once our second daughter came home, two years later, we finally managed to find a Black Santa at a local mall. However, he was only there every other Monday evening. I guess white Santa was either far more popular, or the mall was simply trying to show off its “diversity” without much investment. My then-two-year-old was thrilled to visit a Santa who, in her words, was “Black like me.”

Related: The Wildly Inappropriate Things People Ask Adoptive, Multiracial Families

Fast forward 14 years, and we have four children, all of whom are Black. We are so grateful that companies have scootched over and made room—a lot of room, in fact—for Black Santa. We can’t walk into a store without seeing multiple images of Black Santa—on greeting cards, on ornaments, on pre-made decorated sugar cookies. And yes, in person.

Honestly, we can’t get enough of him. We have Black Santa (and angel and nativity) décor all over our home. We buy every roll of Black Santa wrapping paper we can find—sharing the Black Santa joy with others. Our tree is covered in ornaments featuring people with brown skin and curly hair.

Some people have asked me—knowing our obsession—what the problem is with white Santa. The truth is, we don’t have a problem with him. What we do take issue with is when white Santa is the only option and is deemed the superior default.

Anyone who gets wound up over an alternative should ask themselves why they find a mystical being so threatening. What is it within them that so deeply rejects the notion that Santa can be Black—especially when he brings so many children the seasonal joy they yearn for?

Back at our house, Santa is unapologetically Black. He nibbles on cookies and sips milk before leaving a stack of gifts for my kids on Christmas Eve. He is a superhero or role model of sorts, making my kids’ holiday merry and bright. No matter what your kids look like, he can make their Christmas magical, too.

Last Christmas Eve, we made my great-grandmother’s Italian Christmas cookies. My four kids designed their own with sprinkles; the rest were set aside to enjoy after Christmas dinner, minus the three we placed on a plate for Santa Claus. As we baked, we kept an eye on the Santa Tracker, and as he got closer, I reminded my kids that if they weren’t in bed soon, he might pass our house. We had maintained this Christmas Eve routine for years, and when I went to bed, I had no idea it would be the last year for such traditions.

I had secretly dragged up gifts from my hiding spots in the basement, pulled others from the closet, and did my best not to forget anything. Each year, I listened for the sound of footsteps as I placed those presents under the tree. And while there had been a few close calls, I’d never been caught.

When my oldest children, now 17 and 16, found out about Santa, they promised not to tell their younger brother and sister, allowing them to hold onto the wonder for a little bit longer. That finally ended last year when my youngest told me they knew Santa wasn’t real.

I admitted the truth, but not without giving the same speech I gave to my older kids years earlier: “I am Santa, the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny, that annoying Elf on the Shelf (with a bit of help from your older sister), and every other magical, gift-giving holiday entity.” I explained that creating this magic for them was magical for me and that if one day they chose to have kids of their own, they would recreate this magic, too.

This exact talk lessened the blow when I discovered the same truth 42 years earlier. My foster mother delivered it as I sat crying in the bathroom after a mean kid told me Santa wasn’t real. Her words helped me to see that Santa was real in a way. That we carry the magic of the tradition with us and pass it along to our children, who would one day do the same. She promised that being Santa would be as much fun as believing in him; she was both right and wrong.

While I loved playing the Big Guy for over a decade and a half, it was also an enormous amount of work. It meant while I was working full-time, I also had to buy gifts, hide gifts, find time to wrap gifts, drag the elf out, make cookies for Santa (a.k.a. me), buy eggnog, “feed” the reindeer, and keep up a lie that consumed an entire month of our lives. Being Santa was fun, but it was also exhausting.

Related: Behind Every Magical Holiday Moment Is an Exhausted Mom

Finding out my youngest no longer believed was sad because it signified another parenting end, but it also ushered in the beginning of a new era, and with it came a reworking of Christmas. Now my kids can help me shop for their older siblings. We have also decided they can each take nights finding that annoying elf, creating crazy scenes, and impressing each other with the elf’s antics.

Their discovery of the truth lightened the load for me. I do not have to mail a list or hide every present when they go to bed, and the fear of getting caught is gone. I am grateful that I can now announce “presents coming through, close your eyes” and that I can use all the old wrapping paper from Christmases past (Saint Nick would never!).

So while Santa may be gone, his contributions will never be forgotten. We will always have our memories, but now we can create new traditions.

Wondering how to gift wrap a box like a pro? We’ve got answers

‘Tis the season for trying to figure out how to wrap a present or two! Despite how tempting it is to pop everything in a gift bag, there are plenty of hacks that will take your wrap job from drab to fab. So whether you run out of tape, or bows or need to know how to wrap a gift box (even the odd-shaped ones), we’ve got the best gift-wrapping hacks around. When you’re done, be sure to check out our favorite 3-ingredient appetizers that’ll save you even more time.

Wrap Diagonally

Freestocks via Unsplash

The DIY site Blosson has several different gift-wrapping hacks, including one that shows you how to wrap a present diagonally. Check it out here

Make a Candy Bow

how to wrap a gift box with candy bows
Happy Go Lucky

Paper and fabric bows are so last year. This year, make your package even sweeter by topping it with a candy bow inspired by Happy Go Lucky. Pick your family's favorite candy, then tie it to the front of the gift for a special treat.

Use Aluminum Foil Instead of Paper

Honestly Modern

Short on paper? Check out that stash of shiny packing material or that huge roll of aluminum foil gathering dust in the kitchen and dress up some gifts like Honestly Modern. The best part? Options like this mean you are reusing products you already have and creating less waste. 

Attach Fresh Greenery

how to wrap a gift box with greenery on top
DiEtte Hnderson via Unsplash

Instantly dress up any gift with a snip of pine or another festive frond. The recipient of your gift will love the fun fragrance, and the non-traditional topper is a nice break from a paper or fabric bow.

Use the Takashimaya Wrapping Method

Japanese department store Takashimaya is famous for its quick maneuvering when it comes to getting presents wrapped. If you're looking to bust out all your presents in one sitting then you'll want to watch this video which uses three pieces of tape and less than 30 seconds.

Related: 15 Gift Wrapping Ideas You Haven’t Seen Yet

Decorate with a Garland

how to wrap a gift box with a garland
La Mia Casa via Etsy

Whether you make your own or plan on using an old garland from your last birthday, finishing off a package with a strand of garland is always a good idea! The hack gives a homemade yet stylish look to your wrapped gifts in a cinch.

Mini TP Roll Package

using a TP roll is a genius gift wrapping hack
Allison Sutcliffe

Wrapping something tiny and can’t find an itty bitty box? Try using a TP roll by folding down one side, taping it, putting the gift inside, folding the opposite side in, and finally taping it closed. Finish it off with baker’s twine and a small bow, and you’ll have the ultimate budget-friendly package.

Vintage Mag Gift Wrap

how to gift wrap a box using old maps
Andrew Neel via Unsplash

If you’re looking for a unique way to wrap a gift box guaranteed to impress, try using a vintage map. It's perfect for wrapping almost anything because it's large, can be opened flat, and has natural seams that make it super easy to cut.

Foil & Plastic Wrap Boxes

how to gift wrap a box of cookies
Amanda Evanston via Aunt Peaches

Gift your sweet treats in style with this amazing idea from Aunt Peaches. Grab a waxed paper or aluminum foil box, craft paint, and twine to create a dazzling gift box. Fill the box with your favorite baked goods to put a smile on everyone’s face this season.

Cereal Boxes as Bags

Allison Sutcliffe

Don't worry if you run out of gift bags this season. If you have cereal boxes, you can make a fantastic DIY gift bag. Grab a cereal box, cut out the top or side (depending on the shape of your gift), and wrap it with your favorite holiday paper. Remember to leave the top open, punch holes, and thread yarn or ribbon to create the handles.

Sticky Note Gift Wrap

Gibbs Smith

Seriously, who doesn’t love sticky notes?! But, did you know you can actually use them to make unique and colorful gift wrap for boxes? Take a peek at the new book Stick It! to discover all the ways you can use these amazing little guys.

Related: 39 Holiday Shortcuts That Will Save Your Season

Bag Clip For Finding Your Tape Edge

Allison Sutcliffe

Let’s face it, everyone’s lost the edge of their tape at some point. Keep your sanity intact by using a bag clip to hold your place, and you’ll never lose the tape edge again! A genius gift-wrapping hack if we've ever seen one. 

Grocery Bag Gift Wrap

Shutterstock

Create your perfect brown paper packages on a budget with paper grocery bags. Cut the seams so that the bag lays flat, and you’ll have a lovely sheet of paper to wrap your best holiday finds. Bonus points if your grocery bag already has pre-printed winter scenes on it!

Wrap Buddies

Wrap Buddies

If you know you’ll be wrapping a lot of gifts this season, Wrap Buddies are a definite must-have. These gadgets clip onto the edge of your table to hold the paper down and also double as a tape dispenser!

Double-Sided Tape

gift wrapping hacks include using double-sided tape
Freestocks.org via Unsplash

Give your gifts that “wrapped at the mall” look by using double-sided tape where the wrapping paper overlaps. It’s so clean, your little ones will think you’re magic!

Tape Alternatives

Allison Sutcliffe

No clear tape, no problem. Try using your favorite festive stickers, photo mount tape, or glue dots to keep your packages perfectly wrapped.

Playing Card Gift Tags

How to gift wrap a box with fun gift tags
Family Chic

Making DIY gift tags is actually easier than you think. All you need are playing cards, construction paper, and a little bit of twine. Get the details for this hack and upcycle your playing cards over at Family Chic.

DIY Gift Bag

how to gift wrap a box using wrapping paper
Freestocks via Unsplash

There’s always that one gift that doesn’t fit any bag, box, or sack. No need to have a late-night breakdown! Here's how you'll gift wrap the box like a pro—by fashioning a perfectly-sized gift bag using the wrapping paper you already have with a little help from this video!

Potato Stamps

Housing A Forest

Say goodbye to boring, solid wrapping paper with this cool idea from Housing A Forest. Make your very own patterned paper with a potato stamp. Yes, you read that right! Grab a potato, a cookie cutter and paint to create a craft that gets your kiddos involved with the wrapping process. 

Color-Coded Gift Wrap

Juliana Malta via Unsplash

Cut down on the confusion with this ingenious trick. Try assigning each family member a color or wrapping paper pattern, and forget about all of the gift tags!

Glitter Ribbon

Allison Sutcliffe

You might never buy ribbon again after trying out this glittery hack. Stick some double-sided tape onto your wrapped gift, create a “T” shape or double parallel lines, roll the package in glitter, give it a quick tap, and voila, you’ve got a sparkly finish to your gift. 

The Candy Method

Jones Design Company

If you’ve got an oddly shaped gift that’s not too big, you can always try the candy method. This sweet method is all about taping the paper or tissue at the center of the package and tying the ribbon at both ends. For a more detailed tutorial visit Jones Design Company.

 

 

 

 

 

Coming up with New Year’s Eve party ideas is a lot easier than you think

Whether you stay up until midnight (or 9 EST) to watch the ball drop or decide to do a Noon Year’s Eve thing, you can still host a memorable New Year’s Eve Party for kids. From easy appetizers to creating their own countdown and making confetti poppers, there are dozens of ways to make the last day of the year one they’ll never forget. We’ve got the best New Year’s Eve party ideas perfect for celebrating at home.

1. Plan Your Menu

New Year's Eve party ideas and food
iStock

Let the kids help with the party planning by whipping up a few appetizers made with just three ingredients (or less). From a creamy dip to the best breadsticks ever, there's something for even the pickiest of eaters. If you want something a little more sophisticated, but don't have a lot of time, try our favorite apps that come together in 30 minutes or less. Want to make it even more simple? Check out our favorite appetizers you can find at Trader Joe's. 

2. Hold a Mock Countdown

Throwing confetti is a classic New Years Eve party idea
Lotte Meijer via Unsplash

If your kids won’t make it to midnight, why not host a mock countdown before bedtime? There are dozens of videos available online where they can watch the ball drop (even if it’s last year!) and if you shout “Happy New Year” before the clock strikes 12, it will still be a stand-out celebration for them!

 

3. Play the Pajama Game

Gail Adams-Arnold

Another good New Year's Eve party idea is to host a good, old-fashioned pajama party with friends or just your family! Pile the living room high with sleeping bags, pillows, and blankets (props if you opt for a fort!), wear your coziest PJs, and camp out to watch the ball drop and the new year begin.

4. Dress to the Nines

dressing up is a fun New Year's Eve party idea
iStock

If a PJ party won't do the trick, host a formal affair in honor of the new year and let your littles don old dresses, jackets, gloves, bow ties, boas, and the like. Serve sparkling cider in fancy flutes, petite appetizers, and of course, a New Year’s cake!

5. Have a Cookie Encounter

baking cookies is a fun kids new year's eve party idea
iStock

Break out the sugar and flour and let your kids pick their favorite cookie recipe to bake. If you want to try something different this year, check out our favorite holiday cookie recipes

 

6. Drop the Ball Already

Using balloons is a fun New Year's Eve party idea
Kristin Eldridge for Modern Parents Messy Kids

Why watch the big event on TV when you can host your own? Create your own sparkling ball with a balloon or even piñata and lower it at midnight (or at any time of day if your littles can't stay up that late!). Your kids will love counting down in your own home—and bonus if the piñata ball drops prizes or treats!

7. Make It Glow

summer bucket list ideas
Anton Darius via Unsplash

You wouldn’t believe the amount of glow stick apparel out there! There is everything from necklaces to bracelets and glasses, and they all make a serious statement in the dark or in the backyard when you’re ringing in the new year. Check out our other glowingly good ideas here

 

 

Related: 12 Creative Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Day at Home

8. Make Some Noise

party poppers are one of the best New Year's Eve party ideas
Gabby Cullen

Poppers, pots and pans, confetti-filled balloons, you name it! Put together DIY noise-making machines to set off at midnight (or 8 PM, we won't tell!). These DIY Easy Confetti Poppers made from toilet paper rolls and construction paper are the perfect New Year's Eve party idea for younger kids. 

9. Wig Out!

Ronny Sison via Unsplash

Whether it's just you and the kids or if you're having a gathering, make a trip to the party store to pick out a wig for the big event! Kids will love taking on a new look for the night.

10. Make a Custom Countdown

using balloons for a countdown is a fun New Year's eve party idea
Kenny Eliason via Unsplash

Blow up several balloons with the hours left until the new year written on them (IE. Five Hours to Go, Four Hours to Go) and let your kids take turns popping them as each hour passes.

11. Toast with Toast

Damon Oliveira via Unsplash

When the clock strikes 12, we'll be toasting our bubbly flutes, so let the kids join in and put a spin on things! Pour sparkling cider for the petite partiers and get ready to toast—with toast! Let your kids nibble on their favorite toasts, everything from peanut butter and jelly to Nutella or even cheese! They'll have fun putting together these easy snacks and raising a slice to the new year!

12. Ring the Bell

Paging Supermom

A fun and noisy craft for kids, these New Year’s bells from Paging Supermomare pure genius. Pick up silver bells, golden yarn, and cool wrapping paper, and your party guests will be jingle-jangling in no time.

13. Toot Your Own (Edible) Horn

Cooking with My Kid

Your revelers will most definitely be tooting their own horns if they're edible! Only a little messy and way tasty, these tasty treats create a real sound machine when you nibble off the end of the cone.

14. Make a Wish

No Time for Flashcards

Drum up a little luck for the New Year. Kiddos will love the thumping sounds made by this clever craft. What’s it gonna take to make one? Glitter glue, stamp paint, star, and letter stickers. Don't forget to make a wish. Find out more from No Time for Flashcards.

15. Say Cheese!

Kelly Aiglon

Capture the moment with a DIY photo booth. This is where all those silly wigs and fancy dresses will have their chance to shine! 

16. Toss the Confetti!

tossing confetti is a fun New Year's Eve party idea for kids
iStock

One of our favorite New Year's Eve party ideas is to make your own confetti to toss when it is time to celebrate! Cut whatever paper you'd like into strips, then cut the strips into squares. Of course, tossing confetti makes a mess, but the kids will love using those paper squares to make art collages later on.

 

We’re here to celebrate the Big Guy himself (no, not Santa). Make his holiday merry with these gifts for dad

Whether they’re helping to put together new toys, busy in the kitchen playing host to the whole family, or making sure all the wrapping paper gets picked up, dads are just the greatest. Biological or not, these father figures keep our worlds spinning—but they’re also notoriously difficult to buy for. (Finding gifts for dad is no small feat!)

We made sure to put together a cool collection of worthy-for-our-hero gifts that go beyond the usual necktie or socks (not that there’s anything wrong with those!). From the grillmaster to the nostalgic, we’ve got every type of dad covered. He really is the best, so make sure he knows it with these gifts for dad below.

Knockaround Pacific Palisades Polarized Sunglasses

REI

With a cool retro look and FDA-approved impact-resistant lenses, there's no dad out there who wouldn't love protecting his eyes in style with these.

Knockaround Pacific Palisades Polarized Sunglasses ($32.00)—Buy Here!

Misunderstood Songs Game

Brass Monkey

A party game all about identifying songs–from the worst descriptions humanly possible? Sounds like it's right up dad's alley. 

Misunderstood Songs Game ($18.00)—Buy Here!

PARKIT Voyager Chair

PARKIT

This cooler-chair combo is brilliant. An insulated under-chair compartment, interchangeable cup holder, hands-free carrying, and 5 cool designs make this a gift he'll use all the time.

PARKIT Voyager Chair ($203.00)—But Here!

Tumbler Knife Sharpener

Tumbler

This viral (yes, viral! Just ask TikTok.) knife sharpener is like nothing we've ever seen before. Use the roller to slide the knife blade at two different labeled angles for the sharpest knives ever.

Tumbler Knife Sharpener ($129.00)—Buy Here!

Duke Cannon Handsome Man Travel Set

Bird in Hand

This kit has everything he needs for his next travel adventure. TSA-versions of the best Duke Cannon products, all tucked neatly in a clear travel bag.

Duke Cannon Handsome Man Travel Set ($36.99)—Buy Here!

Tetris Arcade in a Tin: Retro Handheld Tetris Game

Amazon

The Tetris Arcade in a Tin features an LCD screen and authentic arcade-style buttons, it's a retro game in the palm of his hand.

Tetris Arcade in a Tin: Retro Handheld Tetris Game ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Tinybeans

Tinybeans

Share joy. Connect generations. Do it all privately. Tinybeans is the photo sharing app that makes sharing your pictures with only the people you want to see them easy. You can easily and privately capture and organize your kiddo’s best moments and milestones in a single platform. Its intuitive interface, along with features like photobook creation and easy customization, make organizing and searching for memories a breeze. There's no better time of year to capture memories.

Tinybeans (Free!)—Get it Here!

The Leo Fender Guitar String Ring

The Leo Fender ring is a good gift for dads
Manly Bands

Black zirconium and silver Fender guitar string inlay make this ring the ultimate in style. Dad not really a music guy? No problem. Manly Bands also has a DC Collection, a Lord of the Rings Collection, and more, so you'll find the perfect match.

The Leo Fender Guitar String Ring ($595.00)—Buy Here!

SipScout Craft Whiskey Exploration Kit

The Crafty Cask

This set comes complete with 6 craft whiskey samples (enough for 2 people to share!), a printed guide, a video review of whiskey-tasting techniques, and more to create a whole experience at home.

SipScout Craft Whiskey Exploration Kit ($99.00)—Buy Here!

Dad's Customized Family Photo Book

Mixbook

Mixbook gives you a ton of templates to choose from and guides you through creating a customized book dad will love forever.

Dad's Customized Family Photo Book ($9.99+)—Buy Here!

HOKA Clifton 9

Zappos

HOKA's 9th edition of the Clifton sneaker is their lightest and most comfortable yet. It's perfect for everyday walking and running, and there's a reason HOKA is so popular; they've received the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. They also last such a long time.

HOKA Clifton 9 ($144.95)—Buy Here!

hedley&bennett Essential Apron

hedley&bennett

The world-famous chef-approved hedley&bennett creates professional aprons for home chefs, too. This Bravo's Top Chef collab design is one of our faves, but there are so many to choose from.

hedley&bennett Essential Apron ($125.00)—Buy Here!

Phoenicia Diner Pancake Mix

Phoenicia Diner

Built in 1962 and moved to the Catskills in the early '80s, Phoenicia Diner is an icon. So it stands to reason that their famous pancake mix is going to be a welcome breakfast addition.

Phoenicia Diner Pancake Mix ($12.00)—Buy Here!

NFL 100 Greatest Moments

NFL 100 Greatest moments is a good gift for dads
Gild and Ash

For the football fanatic in your life, this collector's book will quickly become a prized possession, thanks to the storytelling and incredible photographs included.

NFL 100 Greatest Moments ($94.00)—Buy Here!

Stereoscope Coffee Subscription

Stereoscope Coffee

California-based Stereoscope Coffee creates a coffee subscription service with blends hand-picked by a Q-grader (consider them certified coffee experts) for a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly delivery of coffee that best represents Stereoscope. Roasted in L.A.

Stereoscope Coffee Subscription ($71.25+)—Buy Here!

Apple Watch Series 6

an apple watch is a good gift for dads
Apple

Give the gift of having everything he could possibly need in the palm of his hands—er, on his wrist. From keeping up with texts and calls to heart rate monitoring and reminders, Apple Watch does it all.

Apple Watch Series 6 ($241.28)—Buy Here!

Tom Bumble Candy Bar

Seven Sisters

Tom Bumble Candy Bars are a swirl of organic crunchy peanut butter, pure Madagascar vanilla, and organic sugar, wrapped up in fair-trade dark chocolate. This isn't your average candy bar.

Tom Bumble Candy Bar ($5.00)—Buy Here!

LEGO Natural History Museum Set

LEGO is a good gift for dads

With over 4,000 pieces, this LEGO set is perfect for any President/Lord Business-types out there (minus the Kraggle, of course). The roof comes off to reveal several exhibit rooms, there's an Apotsaurus fossil to put together, and several minifigures come with the set, too. 

LEGO Natural History Museum Set ($299.99)—Buy Here! 

 

Toadfish Non-Tipping Can Cooler

Toadfish

Unspillable? This can cooler from Toadfish is. It'll stick to any smooth surface and stay upright, on top of keeping beverages cold. Comes in 4 colors.

Toadfish Non-Tipping Can Cooler ($24.00)—Buy Here!

Fuego Box Hot Sauce Premium Collection

FOOD52

The folks over at Fuego Box have pledged to plant 5 trees for every crate sold, so you can feel extra good about gifting this selection of spicy blossom honey, Ghost Pepper–infused Himalayan pink salt, and three hot sauces: an everyday red, a punchy verde, and a very vinegary Carolina Reaper. 

Fuego Box Hot Sauce Premium Collection ($59.95)—Buy Here!

Apollo Thermal Capsule Phone Sleeve

Bespoke Post

Don't let him worry about an overheating phone ever again. NASA-derived tech that keeps your phone from overheating and keeps its battery from draining too quickly in the cold. It also case floats in water so it can be grabbed out of the pool fast, and it exceeds military-grade shock and impact protection when dropped.

Apollo Thermal Capsule Phone Sleeve ($30.00)—Buy Here!

Unbox Boardom Board Game Subscription

Unbox Boardom

Family Game Night won't ever be the same, thanks to this board game subscription box. Just choose the subscription plan you'd like to gift and give them something to look forward to with every delivery.

Unbox Boardom Board Game Subscription ($29.99+)—Buy Here!

Pelican Cooler Sling

The Pelican cooler sling is a good gift for dads
Amazon

The lightweight design with padded shoulder straps allows for ultimate portability and versatility with this cooler swing. It's also rugged enough to withstand whatever nature-lovers throw at it.

Pelican Cooler Sling ($173.47)—Buy Here!

Trilogy 3-Pack Socks by Stance

Bespoke Post

Using Stance's proprietary cotton blend, these iconic socks have a longer lifespan than your run-of-the-mill socks and offer light cushioning for a secure fit and oh-so-comfortable feel.

Trilogy 3-Pack Socks by Stance ($60.00)—Buy Here!

'Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama: A Memoir' by Bob Odenkirk

Amazon

It's possible you've only really fallen in love with Bob Odenkirk from his Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul days, but he's done so much over the years. Read all about it in this memoir. 

Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama: A Memoir by Bob Odenkirk ($21.15)—Buy Here!

Heim BBQ Signature Bacon Burnt Ends 2lbs

Gold Belly

Nothing can go wrong when you combine BBQ and bacon, and these melt-in-your-mouth Bacon Burnt Ends from Heim BBQ in Ft. Worth, TX are 2lbs (!!) of indulgent.

Heim BBQ Signature Bacon Burnt Ends 2lbs ($109.95)—Buy Here!

The Wes Anderson Collection: Bad Dads

Amazon

Curated by Spoke Art Gallery in San Francisco, this artwork inspired by the films of Wes Anderson ranges from paintings to sculptures to limited-edition screen prints from some of the director's most beloved films.

The Wes Anderson Collection: Bad Dads ($18.19)—Buy Here!

Vuori Steadfast Full Zip Hooded Jacket

a Vuori puffer jacket is a good gift for dads
Vuori

So versatile and filled with responsibly sourced down, this medium-weight jacket is flexible, weather-resistant, and comes in two sharp colors.

Vuori Steadfast Full Zip Hooded Jacket ($298.00)—Buy Here!

Cold Massage Roller Ball

this cold massage roller ball is a good gift for dads
Amazon

This roller ball rapidly reduces muscle fatigue and soreness, plus it stays cold for up to 6 hours after freezing.

Cold Massage Roller Ball ($19.99)—Buy Here!

ooni Koda 16 Gas Pizza Oven

ooni

Elevate outdoor cooking with this pizza oven from ooni. Perfect for any outdoor kitchen, it's hot in 15 minutes and your pizza is ready in 60 seconds.

ooni Koda 16 Gas Pizza Oven ($599.00)—Buy Here!

 

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

You haven’t lived until you’ve played squirt gun soccer

We all know those summer days that are too hot and all you want is to jump through a sprinkler. With these water games, your family will have the chance to cool down while having a blast! Below, you’ll find our favorite water balloon games and water games for kids that will keep your family in cool-down mode all season long.

A note about water balloons: they are fun as can be, but please be sure to clean up your little pieces: they can be choking hazards for little birds. Have a few prizes as an incentive to get kids in on a quick clean-up.

1. Water Balloon Basketball

This easy water game is a slam dunk for any age because all kiddos need to do is point and shoot a squishy water balloon into a larger-than-regulation-sized hoop. To get the game started, have them hold a hula-hoop tummy level, the way you carry a laundry basket. Then line up kids for a turn to score two points. After each tiny baller sinks a splat-worthy shot, trade out the positions so everyone gets a turn. They shoot, they score on this one!

2. Water Balloon Towel Toss

Bust out beach towels for this easy-to-run toss water balloon game that’s a little like tennis, but without the net or the racquets. Kiddos play in teams of four, where each pair holds a beach towel gently between them, with a little bit of slack. The goal? To toss the balloon back and forth between two blankets without letting it drop… as many times as you can. The team with the most consecutive bounces (we’re betting they’ll be the driest of the bunch too!) wins!

3. Sponge Ball Relay

Get the energy out of your kiddos with a simple sponge ball relay race. Divide your group into two teams, then set up two empty buckets on one end of the yard, one for each team. Place another two buckets, full of water and sopping wet sponge balls, on the opposite end. When the whistle blows, one player from each team grabs a soaked sponge, runs it lickety-split to the empty bucket, and wrings out as much water as he or she can before running back to tag the next player. It’s easy to play this one with a time limit—the team with the fullest bucket wins! Or, until one team’s bucket spills over in victory.

4. Water Balloon Piñata

String up an array of colorful water balloons in the yard (over a tree, from the swing set) to serve as the piñata. Line up the Littles, and let each one take a swing in turn, with a plastic bat, or even a wrapping paper tube, in the hopes of hitting the delicate target, and letting loose the wild waterfall. Blindfolded or not, this is one guaranteed way to get wet! 

5. Water Balloon Pop!

water balloons for water games for kids
Gabriel Alenius via Unsplash

 

The kids will clock plenty of giggle mileage when they play this fast-paced water game. Break your group into two teams, each with a heaping bucket of fully-loaded water balloons. When you say go, one member from each team grabs a balloon, races down the yard, and tries to pop it with his or her body (think stomping, sitting, or even laying on it!). Guarantee a dousing by having the kids break balloons on a chair, or, let the ground take the brunt of the splash. Once the balloon is popped, it’s back to the start to tag the next kiddo. On your mark, get set, and go

6. Keep Your Eye on the Balloon

For this game, think carnival shooting range—floating balloons being used as target practice. For the set up you’ll need lots of helium balloons and weights that are strong enough to hold the balloons in place when they take direct hits. Spread the targets out on the playing field. Three rows—each a different height and different distance from the shooting line—work well. Then, have kidlets step right up and take their best shot; each time they get a hit, they get a prize. Bullseye!

7. Squirt Gun Soccer

You should probably start stockpiling super soakers for this one. Little athletes will have a blast with this no-kick version of soccer that trades feet for squirt guns, and traditional soccer balls for a lighter-than-air beach ball. To start this wannabe match, break the group into two teams, and arm each player with a fully loaded squirt gun. They’ll use the stream to move the ball around the field as they try to score (or block) a goal. Set up sports cones at either end of the field so they know where to aim, and then it’s time to play. Go, team! 

8. DIY Soakers

Just say no to broken water balloon bits littering the yard; use sponge balls instead! Just as throwable, just as drench-able, this soft alternative won’t leave behind a colorful mess for you to pick up. It’s Overflowing has the information you need in order to make your own colorful soakers.

9. Cup Races

Think NCAA tourney when you whip out cup races at the party. All the tiny kiddos will get a chance to work their way through the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight for a shot at the big time—the Final Four—as they compete head-to-head, racing plastic cups down a string, using squirt guns. Check out the setup and racing details at All for the Boys.

10. Sponge Ball Toss

Got buckets? Then you’ve got all you need for some sponge ball toss. Line the kidlets up facing each other a couple of feet apart, in two straight lines, Madeline style. One holds a bucket, the other a sopping wet sponge ball. The object? Toss the sponge ball into the bucket. The catch? With each successful toss, the bucket holder takes a step back. Once the player misses the bucket, it’s time to switch places. The prize? Soaking in the fun of it all.

11. Kiddie Pool Toe Diving

Put that tiny pool to good use with this water game. Fill it with trinkets, small toys, and pool toys. Then, set a time limit for each player. They have that amount of time to get as many items out of the pool with their toes as possible. The player with the most items at the end of the round wins. Want an adult version of this water game? Use a blindfold.

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

 

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Warm days are on the way, and there is an easy way to make sure the kids get enough fresh air and sunshine. Classic backyard games take almost no props or planning, many of them are well suited to siblings, and some even encourage parents to get in on the fun! These games were made for outside play, and they’re a perfect addition to your neighborhood gathering or summer birthday party.

1. Ice Pool Challenge
Chill out with this easy-to-play, simple-to-stage backyard game that kids of (almost) any age can play. To set it up, fill your kiddie pool with water and dump it in a bag of party ice. Yep, it’s that easy. Then divide the Littles into two teams, each with a bucket. Their goal is to fill the bucket with as many of the submerged ice cubes as they can, using only their feet to move those little rascals from one place to the next. Brrr-ing it!

2. Ninja Attack
In this game, ninjas-in-training test their skills by quietly sneaking up on a ninja master. Intrigued? Start by setting up a ninja course (think: paintball course) using oversized moving boxes, play tunnels, and other objects kids can quickly duck behind (or into). This is where the little ninjas will try to hide as the ninja master scans the yard for tiny foes. Then, have the master stand at one end of the yard opposite their attackers. When you say go, the ninja master turns their back on her opponents while they stealthily walk toward them. When you say stop, little ninjas duck behind whatever’s closest so the master ninja won’t spot them. If they do, the little ninja is out. But if you’ve got the skill and can reach the ninja master first, you become the master!

3. Balloon Relay
A perfect game for outside play. Fill up a few water balloons and line up the kids Madeline-style (that’s two straight lines). Hand each line leader a balloon and have them place it securely between their knees. Then it’s time to start the game! Players pass the balloon, knees-to-knees, down the row until it reaches the finish. It doesn’t get easier than that!

4. Bandana Tag
Transform the typical game of tag into a free-for-all (this one works best with older kiddos). The twist? They’re all “it.” To play, hand out bandanas to your crew to tuck in along their waistline, and let the great chase begin! Players tag each other by snagging bandanas, while simultaneously guarding their own until one player is left standing. It’s a wild romp they’ll want to play over and over again.

5. Bucket Toss
You can’t go wrong with carnival games, and the bucket toss is an all-time favorite. Line up the prize-filled buckets in a row. Each kid who power-slings a ball into a bucket is the proud owner of the goodie waiting to be plucked up. Opt for three turns each, otherwise, there could be a lot of standing (or wiggling) happening!

6. Squirt Gun Soccer
You should probably start stockpiling super soakers for this one. Little athletes will have a blast with this no-kick version of soccer that trades feet for squirt guns and traditional soccer balls for a lighter-than-air beach ball. To start this backyard game, break the party group into two teams, and arm each player with a fully loaded squirt gun. They’ll use the stream to move the ball around the field as they try to score (or block) a goal. Set up sports cones at either end of the field so they know where to aim, and then it’s time to play. Go, team!

7. Statue & Tourist
Perfect for when the light is fading (or in a dark room). One player is the “tourist” who is viewing the amazing statue garden. They get a flashlight.  All the other players must stay as still as a statue: they are allowed to move when the light is off, but as soon as the tourist turns the flashlight on they must stay still. When the flashlight is on the statue, the tourist tries to make the statue giggle or wiggle. If they do, they join the tourist’s team and go tour for the next statue.

8. Run Through the Sprinkler
Turn your pool noodle into the best kiddie pool accessory in town, by converting it into an overhead sprinkler. Mommy’s Block Party can walk you through the process. It’s like a trip to the splash pad, without leaving the house. That sounds like the perfect summer pace to us! Check out these other amazing things you can do with a pool noodle (that don't involve a pool).

 

Related: 55 Free or Cheap Ideas for Inventive Backyard Play

backyard games with hula hoops
iStock

9. Play with Hula-Hoops
Who says you have to have moves like Jagger to have fun with a hula hoop? Check out Learn Play Imagine's awesome hula hoop games—you'll be amazed at the different and new ways you can play with one of the oldest toys imaginable.

10. Water Balloon Piñata
Bye-bye piñata loaded with sugary sweets and playful trinkets; hello suspended deluge! String up an array of colorful water balloons in the yard (over a tree, from the swing set) to serve as the party piñata. Line up the Littles, bursting with excitement to try this creative alternative, and let each one take a swing in turn, with a plastic bat, or even a wrapping paper tube, in the hopes of hitting the delicate target, and letting loose the wild waterfall. Blindfolded or not, this is one guaranteed way to get wet!

11. Monkey Around. 
Building on the “tag, you’re it!” theme, Monkey Tails is a silly variation that gets the whole crew involved in the chase. Simply tuck tails (socks or even dad’s ties make great ones) into the monkeys’ waistbands, then send everyone off, ducking, dodging and running wild, to keep their tails from being nabbed by another player. The last player with a tail wins. 

12. Superhero Showdown
Organize a meeting of the superheroes and watch the afternoon fly by. You might be ducking to avoid Batman’s (imaginary) gadgets and Spidey’s web all afternoon but the non-stop giggle-fest will be worth the effort.

13. 21 Questions, or "Who Am I?"
One person comes up with a person or thing; the other person has to ask "Yes" or "No" questions to try to figure out what or who it is. For younger kids, nix the Yes or No and just let any question do.

14. iSpy
This one's another standby that's great for nice afternoons outside. You can play it by "spying" something that is a certain color ("I spy something purple") or by spying something that starts with a specific letter ("I spy something that starts with the letter B"). You can also up the game with binoculars and try to spot things at a certain distance away. 

15. Look for Pictures in the Clouds
After all of these fun activities, the last, and best one on your bucket list is to lay back in the grass and hunt for pictures floating by in the clouds. See who can be the first to spot an animal, an imaginary being, a building, a car, and whatever other fun shapes you can think of.

16. Rock, Paper, Scissors
Get your game hands on and "shoot!" Want to know how to be a Rock Paper Scissors star? Watch this fun video from Buzzfeed on "How to Win at Rock Paper Scissors." Or try the Japanese version, called Janken. Start by saying “saisho wa guu.” Then “janken pon” as you pump, before throwing on “pon.” The winning combos are still the same in this timeless, quick backyard game you can play at home or on the go.

17. Simon Says
Simon says to try this backyard game with your kids instead of handing them your phone the next time you're waiting for anything (i.e. at the doctor's office, outside the classroom, etc.). If you didn't grow up on Planet Earth and don't know how to play, here are the rules.

 

Related: The Best Backyard Ninja Warrior Courses for Kids

giant pick up sticks are a fun backyard game and a fun game for outside
Shelley Massey

18. Make and Play Giant Pick-Up Sticks
Instead of playing pick-up sticks with the chopstick-sized sticks of our youth, why not spray paint the sticks in your yard and play with those, instead? Bonus: Guess who helps you gather the sticks out of your yard? And they say they’re too young for yard work. You can thank I Heart Naptime for the great idea.

19. Let’s Race!
On your mark, get set, GO! Whether you’re staging a relay race or a full-tilt foot race, all you need for a memorable obstacle course is whatever you’ve got in your garage (think big wheels, basketballs, and jump ropes) and a little creativity. Want to up the ante? Add a stopwatch, and you’ll have them competing against their own PRs all afternoon long. Nothing gets the giggles going more than an obstacle that involves improv dancing!

20. Play Blind Man’s Bluff
This classic game is like thinking-man’s tag. All you need is a blindfold and a few players to start. Put the blindfold on the Seeker; then spin them around a few times while the other players scatter. Now it’s time to seek. Using their keen other senses, the Skeeker tries to tag the scattered players who are rooted in place. Sure, players can duck and dodge their outstretched arms, but they can’t move their feet. It’s a giggle-worthy backyard game everyone can play!

21. Food Truck
From the brilliant mind behind Tinker Lab comes another great way to pretend play outdoors. If you’ve got a big cardboard box, then you’ve got a restaurant, a vehicle, and a store! Yup, it’s a pretend food truck and it’s rolling right into your living room. They’ll be serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert— all in one afternoon.

22. Green Light, Go!
We love Red Light/Green Light because it’s a simple and quick backyard game to play. Plus, it gives parents the option to take it easy as the caller or join in the game (hello daily workout!). Stop and go until they’re tuckered out from all that running.

23. Marco Polo (with a twist)
Modify a classic pool game with a few tweaks, and you’ve got a backyard game that'll tire out your kids. Play a few rounds of Marco Polo outside—all that ducking, dodging and blind searching is more tiring than you’d expect, which makes it a great way to wear out wee ones pre-bedtime.

24. Have a Sponge Ball War
Better than a water balloon fight (sayonara, plastic balloons all over the yard!), DIY sponge balls (find them at It's Overflowing) are reusable, versatile, and a total blast.

25. Give Up the Charade
Have your little monkey stay in character when you play a quick game of animal charades. No prep is necessary for this easy guessing game. Just pick your favorite animal and go for it! With each successful guess, trade places and start again. Ee-i-ee-i-o!

 

 

Being okay with doing less is actually something to celebrate

I’ve been a mom for almost 12 years, and for half of those years, I was forced to do less by default. I was working full-time with two small children who constantly needed things from me, so an Instagrammable parenting life was not in the cards. Ironically, I was working for parenting sites during that time, so I was very well-versed in all the things other moms were somehow pulling off: juggling extracurriculars, having craft-tastic holidays, and volunteering for all the things.

Doing less started as a necessity, but as my kids grew older and less demanding and I realized I had more choice in the matter, doing less actually became the gold standard for how to run a functional house. Moms who do less, I salute you. And moms who haven’t figured out how to lighten the load a little yet, here are some tips. I believe in you. You too can do less.

Birthdays

I grew up in the ’80s, and every single birthday party followed the same itinerary: invite a few kids over, play some games (usually involving pinning the tail on something and sitting on a balloon until it popped), eat cake, open presents, and send kids home. For my daughter’s 6th birthday, I decided to go for a princess theme. We rented out a place that had “princess makeovers”—little salon seats where the girls got their nails and makeup done. Then women dressed like Disney princesses galavanted around the room and took pictures with everyone. There was a perfect tier of cupcakes with little tiaras sitting atop each one.

You know what all the girls’ favorite part of that party was? When they sat in a circle and played hot potato. Seriously. A real potato being thrown from person to person. Because kids are simple little beings who are easily entertained and I promise you that having a group of friends over and dancing around your living room for a bit will be just as fun for them as going to some faux-fairyland where they get age-appropriate makeovers. We’re doing too much. The next year I bought a little disco light for $12 off of Amazon, and the girls danced and played hot potato. Do less.

Extracurriculars

There are some kids who are drawn to extracurriculars; I know this because my friends have them. My kids are not. For several years, I forced them to “try some out,” thinking for sure they’d find something they liked. We attempted jujitsu, gymnastics, ballet… nothing interested them. They participated, but no real fun was being had. One day after jujitsu, I walked up to my son and asked him if he enjoyed it. He said, “Not really, but I know you really want me to do something, so I’ll keep going, Mom!”

What? I realized then that not all kids need to be shuttled around from one activity to the next. Kudos to you if you have kids who are naturals, but if yours aren’t into it, don’t stress. Take the extracurriculars off all of your plates. You’re not a worse mom because you’re not spending half your life in your car, taking your kids places they may not even want to be.

Dinner

I have a lot of former child-free friends who smugly declared they’d never make separate meals for their future kids, and my favorite thing to do is laugh in their faces when I see them feeding their kids marshmallows for dinner. Then I give them a high five, because, solidarity. The thing about kids is that they’re little human beings with their own interests and opinions. Weird, right?

Just like some adults don’t like Brussels sprouts, some kids don’t, either! And you don’t need to stress about it. Find one easy dinner they like and default to it on any day that they’re feeling picky, and don’t feel bad about it. My kids get excited about breakfast for dinner, so I know if all else fails they’ll eat egg whites and toast—and I’m fine with that. Find your egg whites and toast, and call it a day.

School Fundraising

Book fairs, holiday fairs, wrapping paper drives, box tops, Parent Teacher Association parties… there is so much (much-needed) fundraising that goes on when your kids are in school. PTAs are amazing organizations that truly help supplement funds so schools can pull off some great programs for kids.

You know what they need besides hands-on parental involvement? Cash. Don’t feel bad about opting out of the physical aspect of it and just giving a donation. It’s a lot. And there are parents who don’t have very small children or don’t work full-time or just simply enjoy the heavy lifting involved with school fundraising. Let them do it, support monetarily, and don’t feel bad about it.

School Projects

School projects are meant to be done by kids. Alone. Not supervised and directed by a parent. If you are stressing out about a school project, it’s probably because some over-zealous parent totally constructed their child’s, then bragged about what an artistic genius their kid was on social media. That parent is a lying liar. Let your kid make their crappy, age-appropriate project without your help. Then all you need to do is be proud of said crappy, age-appropriate project.

Clean Rooms

If our kids’ rooms look like an outtake from a Pottery Barn catalog, we’ve gone too far. Kids like to play with things. They like to build intricate lands and return to those lands. Kids need a safe space to call their own, and part of that is deciding how that space will look. Set boundaries about certain things that you think are “too far”—and stick to them. But don’t get down on yourself if your child’s room is a mess. Taking the pressure off of them will also take the pressure off of you.

Making Things Magical

In our effort to make things as magical as possible, we can forget that the most magical thing about childhood is… childhood. The belief in the magical will be there whether you’re able to pull off Instagram-worthy Elf on the Shelf scenes or convince your kids there is a fairy garden that’s taken up residence on the other side of their wall by constructing an elaborate little door. Ninety percent of belief and magic lives in our imaginations—something you’ll remember if you think about your own childhood. You’re not failing if you can’t pull these things off—we’re simply not all meant to craft. And that’s just fine.

Try out these 14 simple, family-friendly crafts that are perfect for Hanukkah

There’s only so much “Dreidel, Dreidel” a kid can play to celebrate each Hanukkah season. Make the Festival of Lights a little more fun with these easy Hanukkah crafts for kids. From a gold dinosaur menorah and “Menorahs By Mail” to pop-up cards and kindness chains—here are some creative ways to keep your little artists busy all eight nights.

Star of David Collage

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIhEieOBKuQ/?hidecaption=true

Use all different shades and patterns of blue paper to decorate this Star of David. Take creative license and put your unique flair on this Hanukkah craft! Hang it in a window on a hook or wherever it fits best.

Giant Menorah

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIoO2Uzg7p9/?hidecaption=true

Make this giant menorah to display in a wide window or a big space. Let your kiddos get creative with the decorating. Use any paint colors and even add jewels (or glitter if you are brave) if you'd like.

Dreidel Pop-Up Card

Hanukkah Crafts
MadCrafty on Youtube

Make your holiday cards stand out from the rest with this dreidel pop-up card that's way easier to make than it looks! All you need is cardstock paper, scissors, and watercolor paint. Get the simple instructions at Madcrafty on Youtube

Make an 8 Nights of Kindness Paper Chain

CoffeeandCarpool.com

In Judaism, Tikkun Olam means "repairing the world through acts of kindness"—and it's one of the most important Jewish principles. This simple paper chain garland combines Tikkun Olam with the eight nights of Hanukkah—each link of the chain contains a simple act of kindness you and your kids can do each day. Get the instructions (and the free printable) at CoffeeandCarpool.com.

Menorah By Mail

Hanukkah crafts
Melissa Heckscher

Got loved ones who celebrate Hanukkah far, far away? We love this idea from Martha Stewart magazine, which lets you send a mailable "menorah" with gifts for all eight nights of Hanukkah. All you need is a business-sized envelope to decorate as the menorah, with eight smaller envelopes to go inside (or make your own envelopes, as we did!). Your kids can put small gifts or sweet messages inside each little envelope.

Baby Footprint/Handprint Menorah

Hanukkah crafts
ReformJudaism.org

Is it baby's first Hanukkah? Mark the occasion by letting your little one put his foot down... in clay! These baby handprint and footprint menorahs are easy to make and will work as precious holiday decorations for years to come. Get the easy instructions at ReformJudaism.org.

Use LEGO Bricks to Tell the Story of Hanukkah

Hanukkah crafts
Deborah Goldberg

Epic battle scenes! Death-defying miracles! Dramatic endings! There's a lot to the Hanukkah story that makes it a riveting tale. How about giving your kids the challenge of re-enacting the holiday story with LEGO bricks? That's what this family did one year after a Hanukkah gingerbread house led to a family tradition of LEGO holiday retellings. Get the story—and some inspiration—at Reformjudaism.org.

Menorah Flame Headpiece

Melissa Heckscher

Every little person at your Hanukkah gathering absolutely must wear one of these adorable menorah flame headpieces (Bonus points if you've got exactly nine kids). There are no fancy instructions for this Hanukkah craft: Just cut strips of construction paper and affix a paper flame in the middle. Let your kids decorate their flame—glue and glitter make it really sparkle! Then, staple the strips at the ends according to each child's head size. Light the lights!

TP Tube Party Favors

Hanukkah Crafts
Creative Jewish Mom

Let the kids in on the holiday surprises by asking them to help make these fun party favors. Toilet paper tubes, paint, glitter glue, and tissue paper (plus fun treats for stuffing into the tubes) are all that are needed to make these colorful treats that can be used over and over again. Creative Jewish Mom has step-by-step instructions on how to make them.

Hanukkah Wrapping Paper

Tori Avey

What’s better than a Hanukkah gift? One that’s wrapped in special, homemade wrapping paper. Tori Avey has a great idea for a potato-stamped paper that the kids will have as much fun making as they do opening.

Sparkly Menorah

Creative Jewish Mom

Everything is better with glitter! Kids will love constructing their own sparkly menorahs that use silver glitter, gold sequins, and glitter glue! You might be cleaning up stray glitter until long past Hanukkah, but the beauty of these keepsake menorahs will make it worth the mess. Get the instructions from this Creative Jewish Mom.

 

Candy Dreidels

Tori Avey

It won't take much convincing to get kids on board for this craft, which doubles as a delicious dessert. These Hanukkah-themed treats are as yummy as they are adorable. The bite-sized desserts—they're made of just marshmallows, sprinkles, pretzels, and chocolate—are the perfect treat to bring to any Hanukkah party or to serve after dinner at your own special bash. Food blogger Tori Avey has an easy no-bake recipe.  *Psst: These little edibles take just a few minutes to prepare.

The Menorasaurus

Hanukkah crafts
Melissa Heckscher

Why settle for an ordinary menorah when you can make one that's both a candle holder and a fearsome prehistoric reptile? This DIY "menorasaurus" may look store-bought, but making it is actually easier than you'd think. All you need is some spray paint, a plastic dinosaur, and some hex nuts. Get the instructions (for this and other fun homemade menorahs) here.

Hanukkah Bath Set

Hanukkah crafts
Simple Play Ideas

Why let the Hanukkah fun stop after the dreidels stop spinning? Bring the menorah into the bathtub with this simple DIY foam bath set. Kids can help cut the shapes from foam boards, but the real fun comes in the tub when they can construct and deconstruct their menorahs, over and over again! Get easy instructions for this Hanukkah craft from Simple Play Ideas.