December is full of sparkle for toddlers. You don't need elaborate plans to make it feel special. Here are ten easy activities for the month, most using things you already have. Always supervise, and keep small parts away from children under 3.
1. A holiday book basket
Wrap a few holiday picture books and open one each evening. Keep this week's favorites together where little hands can reach them. The Sunny book rack holds a small stack spine-out in a V-shaped cradle, like a mini bookshelf, on a low shelf or table.
2. Paper chain countdown
Make a paper chain with one link for each day until Christmas. Your toddler tears off a link each morning. It's a simple way to show "how many sleeps".
3. Sticker and crayon crafts
Big stickers, chunky crayons and paper cut into tree and star shapes keep toddlers busy. A kids table keeps it in one place. The Pebble table and chairs wipe clean afterward.
4. A cozy reading tent
Turn a play tent into a holiday hideout with blankets, cushions and holiday books. The Hideout play tent has roll-up curtains and folds away after the holidays. Skip string lights inside the tent, and keep it away from heaters and cords.
5. A starry night
Turn off the lights and fill the ceiling with stars for a special holiday story time. The Orbit star projector puts stars and nebula clouds overhead, with the remote kept by an adult. Nobody should look directly into the light.
6. Little baking helper
Toddlers can pour pre-measured ingredients, stir and add sprinkles. Keep them well away from the oven and hot trays, and skip raw dough tasting.
7. A sensory "snow" bin
Cotton balls, big pom-poms or real snow in a tray, with scoops and cups. Watch closely so nothing goes in the mouth.
8. Look at the lights
A walk or drive to see holiday lights after dinner feels like an adventure. Dress warmly, and bring a snack.
9. Make a gift
A handprint card or a painted pinecone for grandparents is a gift they'll treasure, and toddlers love giving.
10. Holiday dance party
Put on holiday songs and dance. Add freeze dance for extra giggles.
Keeping December calm
- Pick one or two activities a day, not ten.
- Keep naps and bedtime steady where you can.
- Build in quiet time, especially after busy days.
Questions parents ask
What Christmas activities can a 2-year-old do?
Sticker crafts, reading holiday books, simple baking help, looking at lights and dancing to holiday music.
How do I explain the Christmas countdown to a toddler?
Use something they can see, like a paper chain, and talk about "sleeps" rather than days.
How do I keep a toddler safe around Christmas decorations?
Hang breakables high, secure the tree, and keep cords, lights and batteries out of reach.
Shopping for a preschooler? See gift ideas for 3-year-olds.
Filling stockings? See our stocking stuffers for toddlers and gift ideas for 2-year-olds.
