Making Christmas RAD: A Boy Mom’s Guide to a cool Holiday Season

As a mom, the holiday season can be both chaotic and wonderful. From decorating the tree, to seeing your kids overloaded on sugar cookies, there is something both magical and stressful about watching your children take in the Christmas season. 

To help limit your stress, and the number of times you watch the Grinch, I've put together a guide to help you make the most of the holiday season.

1. Start a Mom-and-Son Tradition

One fun way to kick off the holidays is to start a tradition you share with your boy(s). In our house it's painting pottery at our local pottery shop. Think outside of the box and create a fun habit - like building an exclusive new lego toy, making sugar cookies, or even a snack tray movie night under the tree. Whatever tradition you start, your child will fondly remember it as they grow.

Pro Tip: Let them pick the activity! You’ll be surprised how creative they can get.

2. Kid-Friendly Gift Wrapping Station

If you're boys are anything like mine, you could probably be rich from the number of times they say MOM in a day. Let them take part in the action and have them help pick out gifts for other family members. When it's time to wrap, set them up their own wrapping station. Not only does this create a fun moment, but it helps them stay busy - at least for a little while.

Bonus Idea: Use brown paper and let them decorate the wrapping with markers or stamps for a personal touch!

3. Outdoor Adventures for the Holiday Season

Burn off some holiday energy by taking the festivities outdoors. Go on a family hike or visit a local Christmas tree farm. If you’re in a colder climate, building snow forts or going sledding makes for unforgettable fun.

Quick Tip: Bring a thermos of hot chocolate for a cozy post-adventure treat!

4. DIY Holiday Crafts for Active Boys

Arts and crafts don’t have to be complicated! Create simple, boy-approved holiday crafts like:

• Pinecone ornaments painted with glittery snow.
• Handprint reindeer cards for grandparents.
• DIY snow globes using mason jars and small action figures.

These crafts double as keepsakes and gifts they’ll feel proud to give.

5. Stocking Stuffers They’ll Love

Fill their stockings with fun and practical items. Think small toy cars, activity books, mini puzzles, and cozy socks featuring their favorite characters. Throw in a small candy cane for a little sweet treat.

6. Keep It Cozy with Matching Family Outfits

The holidays are the perfect time to dress up as a family. Matching outfits can be a fun way to get everyone in the festive spirit, especially for those Christmas morning photos. Check out Little Rad Things for cozy, stylish holiday options that your boys will actually love to wear.

7. Reflect on the Year Together

Take a quiet moment amidst the hustle and bustle to reflect on the year with your boys. What were their favorite moments? What are they excited about for next year? This simple act of gratitude teaches them to cherish life’s little joys.

8. Embrace the Chaos

Remember, the holidays don’t have to be picture-perfect. There will be spills, messes, and maybe even a tantrum or two, but those moments are part of the story. Lean into the chaos, laugh a little louder, and enjoy the memories you’re creating with your kids.