- Create a new tradition. Create a new family tradition to bond around healthy activities! Organize a kickball or ultimate frisbee game or get everyone to sign up for the local 5k Turkey Trot. Imagine creating fun memories with your whole family for years to come! Not only does it set a positive, active tone for the day, but it also builds anticipation and camaraderie for the holiday meal. It’s a tradition that adds excitement or purpose to an otherwise “traditional” holiday gathering! There are a ton of activities you can consider! A game of charades, a family hike, scavenger hunt, cornhole tournament.
- Set limits around desserts. Aunt Joanne doesn’t need to bake 5 pies for the family meal. There are only 10 people. 2 pies, max! This small shift not only makes dessert feel more intentional and enjoyable, but it also keeps everyone feeling light and comfortable for the rest of the holiday activities. You can make it even more fun by creating a mini “dessert tasting” experience, where each person gets to try a small bite of a few different treats! It’s a simple, family-friendly way to focus on quality over quantity, all while creating healthier habits and warm memories.
- Gratitude at the dinner table. On Thanksgiving we express gratitude for our blessings. But why stop there? Start today and create a habit of going around your dinner table every night and talking about what you’re grateful for. You’ll spark high quality conversations and learn more about your family! We do this with our 4 and 2 year olds and it’s amazing! Give this gratitude practice a try every day for the next 2 months!
