Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Oakland, CA

(from VDog)

Tis the season for performing holiday rituals and celebrating family.  Whether you light the Menorah or trim the Christmas tree, every family should have some type of holiday ritual. Rituals are a way to mark a time as special and different from the every day, and they are a great way to get the kids involved in holiday festivities.

One of my most favorite rituals growing up was something my mom made up -- she let us all open one present on Christmas Eve.  That present would ALWAYS be a pair of Christmas/Winter themed pajamas.  Even though it wasn't a toy, my three siblings and I loved getting our special jammies to wear just for Christmas.

This year will be my son's second Christmas, but his first one being aware of what is going on. Since we're not a religious family, it is important to me to have some other rituals in place to make the holidays more special for both him and us. I always cook the eggs on Christmas morning and my husband makes the coffee. My younger siblings set the table, and everyone helps out with cooking something or other.  We always use the 'good' china, use holiday themed table decorations and light candles.

One ritual I love is coming together with the whole family to sing songs - traditional Christmas Carols and Winter themed songs like 'Let It Snow' are so much more fun when sung in a large group. I know my son will love getting in on this ritual, perhaps with his maracas, since I doubt he'll learn all the words in the next few weeks.

What holiday rituals does your family have? How do you pass on these traditions to your children? I'd love to hear your ideas since this year will be my first time out!