Festive fun for kids

Christmas is a family time, so make the most of this festive season by engaging in fun activities with your kids. From a spiritual service to a panto, there's something for everyone to enjoy

Make a Christmas cake

Children love mixing cakes, and a Christmas cake is perfect - think of all those sultanas to stir in! Letting your child measure out the ingredients will help them with their numbers, and explaining what you are doing as you go along will teach them the basics of cooking.

Make Christmas cards

Get out the glitter and let your imagination go wild! Relatives especially love handmade cards from their favourite grandson or niece. Then help your child write them, address them and take them to the post office.

Go to a carol service

All children love singing carols, so organise a family outing to your local church's carol service. Check your local press for details of other events that include carol singing, or simply gather some friends and family and have mince pies, mulled wine and a little festive singing at home.

Check out the Christmas lights

Most towns have Christmas lights in the centre and many will have local community displays. Most shops and department stores have festive window displays that are also worth a look.

Trim the tree

Nothing beats the excitement of choosing the perfect Christmas tree and decorating it. Getting out your family decorations is a reminder of previous happy times and can chart the growth of your family. Buying one new decoration each year for each child makes them feel special and gives you Christmas mementos for the future.

Head for the theatre

Check out your local theatre listings for pantomimes or special Christmas performances for children. If your children are very young it's best to choose shorter performances.