Holiday Magic: Tips to Make Christmas Day Special for Your Toddler

Christmas Day is a holiday brimming with joy, sparkle, and wonder—especially for toddlers who are just beginning to understand the magic of the season. And as parents, there is nothing more magical than getting to experience Christmas through your toddlers eyes. Creating these magical moments for your tiny tot is all about making the day memorable and fun. Here are a few ways you can sprinkle a little extra Christmas magic and creating traditions your toddler will treasure for years to come.

1. Special Christmas Morning Pajamas

Start the tradition of special Christmas pajamas to make waking up even more exciting. Choose a pair with a fun holiday theme, whether it’s elves, reindeer, or Santa himself, and let your toddler wear them to bed on Christmas Eve. When they wake up on Christmas morning, they’ll already be in the spirit to open gifts and make memories!

    2. Bring Santa's Visit To Life

    Let the excitement of Santa’s visit be remembered! On Christmas morning, take the magic up a notch by making Santa footprints! Lightly dust some fireplace ashes around the hearth, and use a shoe to create footprints that look like Santa stepped right out of the fireplace. 

    3. Bake & Decorate Cookies From Scratch

    Knowing that Santa will be arriving soon to deliver all sorts of goodies, but in exchange for some delicious cookies, makes children so excited. Turning cookie making and decorating into a tradition will not only make the holiday sparkle for them, but create amazing memories that you will cherish forever.

    4. Make “Magic Reindeer Food”

    Nothing says holiday magic like preparing for Santa’s arrival. On Christmas Eve, help your toddler make “magic reindeer food” by mixing oats, birdseed, and a sprinkle of glitter (edible or biodegradable if possible). This small gesture can feel like a grand event for your toddler, and they’ll love sprinkling it outside before bed “so Santa’s reindeer can find their way.” Check out this fun recipe from Slay At Home Mother:

    • 1/2 cup of oats
    • 2 tbsp. gold glitter
    • 2 tbsp. sprinkles

      5. Festive Holiday Book Shelf

      Decorating their sweet little bedroom bookshelves for the season, and filling it with magical children's books, will not only inspire them to want to read - but will keep their sleep space in the holiday spirit! Swapping out your children's books seasonally helps keep things fresh and exciting for them. And having a full collection of holiday books at the ready, makes for mommy & me bedtime stories galore! Check out our recommended Holiday Books By Age!