Through the eyes of children, everything about the holidays seems bigger, brighter, and more magical. From the twinkling lights on a neighbour’s house to the mystery of presents appearing under the tree, the season is filled with wonder.
Children remind us to slow down and savour the small moments that adults often take for granted. They find immense joy in decorating cookies, unfazed by dripping frosting or towering piles of sprinkles. The sound of crinkling wrapping paper, taped together with carefree enthusiasm, adds to their excitement. They eagerly count down the days, filled with hope that their wishes will come true, and delight in the decorated homes that seem to glow with life on winter nights. To a child, these simple details are what make every moment magical and extraordinary.
But what makes the holidays truly magical for children is the sense of togetherness. They treasure time spent with family: decorating the tree, helping with the Christmas baking, and curling up with loved ones to watch holiday movies. These experiences create a sense of belonging and fill their hearts with warmth.
For adults, the holidays can become so consumed by the rush and whirlwind of shopping lists, meal prep, and travel plans that we lose sight of what really matters. This year, the best gift we can give ourselves and our children is to pause and see the season through their eyes.
Start by asking yourself: what holiday traditions made you happiest as a child? Was it building a snowman, the smell of cinnamon wafting through the house, or eagerly waiting to unwrap that one present before Christmas morning? Recreate those moments with your kids, or make new traditions. The magic is not in being perfect but in the joy of being present.
Sharing in a child’s excitement can also remind us of the importance of giving. Children often approach the holidays with open hearts, eager to give handmade gifts or donate toys to those in need. By encouraging these acts of kindness, we can teach them — and ourselves — that the spirit of the holidays is not just about receiving; it is about spreading love and cheer.
One of the simplest ways to reconnect with the holiday magic is to spend time doing the things children love. Build a gingerbread house, go sledding, or take a walk to admire the neighbourhood decorations. Sing carols at the top of your lungs, even if you do not know all the words. These moments might feel small, but they create memories your children will carry for a lifetime.
The magic of the holidays does not belong exclusively to children; it is there for anyone willing to embrace it. All it takes is a willingness to let go of the pressures of adulthood and rediscover the world with a sense of wonder.
As we move through this season, let the children in your life guide you. Share in their excitement, listen to their dreams, and marvel at their creativity. In doing so, you will not only make their holidays brighter; you might just take a moment to slow down and see the world as children do — full of hope, magic, and endless possibility — to reignite your own sense of holiday wonder.
