The holidays are filled with anticipation, joy, and, let’s be honest, a lot of shopping carts and shipping delays. But more and more families are stepping back to ask: what actually matters to our kids this time of year? Recent research cited by ID Tech shows that 74% of people prefer experiences over traditional gifts, and Gen Z especially values adventure and trying new things. Experiences create memories; toys eventually end up in a closet.
Here in Miami-Dade, many organizations supported by The Children’s Trust already bring these meaningful experiences to life - through family gatherings, creative performances, cultural exploration, and opportunities to give back. Parents can build on these ideas at home to help kids feel the spirit of the season far beyond the wrapping paper.
Below are five ways to help your children get more out of the holidays - and maybe even start traditions they’ll look forward to all year long.
- Make the holidays your own
You don’t need a long family history of rituals to create meaningful ones. Start simple: a holiday movie night, a board-game marathon, or a cozy evening making digital or VR creations together. What matters is being present with your kids, not making everything perfect.
Religious families may already have their own traditions, but even nonreligious families can find special ways to celebrate. Explore how other cultures mark the season and adopt your own twist. My Happy House Day Care, supported by The Children’s Trust, does this beautifully with its annual Special Thanksgiving Dance and family lunch - experiences that blend creativity, community, and celebration. Your home can feel just as warm and intentional.
2. Take out the tension
Kids feel your energy - especially during the holidays. If you’re overwhelmed by late deliveries or long mall lines, they will be too. Try modeling calm, even when plans go sideways. Take a breath, laugh about the chaos, and remind your kids (and yourself) that the holidays aren’t about perfecting every detail.
Parents at Hernandez Family Day Care Home know this well. Their annual Pajama Party & Breakfast is all about showing up as you are – literally - in pajamas. No pressure, no fuss, just time together. Following their lead, give yourself permission to simplify. Your kids will remember the warmth, not the logistics.
3. Teach kids how other cultures do it
One of the easiest ways to broaden children’s understanding of holidays is by learning how other cultures observe them. This helps kids see that not everyone centers celebrations around gifts and can deepen their appreciation for traditions worldwide.
Talk with a neighbor or friend who celebrates differently. Read children's books about global winter traditions. Try a craft or recipe from another country. Activities like these support hands-on learning—and can even lead to meaningful cultural exchanges. You might spark a new tradition you hadn’t expected.
4. Inspire the gift of giving
Helping children give to others can be one of the most powerful experiences of the season. Donating toys, volunteering time, or participating in community events teaches empathy and shows kids the difference they can make.
Amigos for Kids’ annual Holiday Toy Drive and Winter Wonderland, supported by The Children’s Trust, is a great example. More than 3,000 children receive gifts chosen from personalized wish lists—and for many, it’s the only gift they’ll receive. Families can participate by donating toys or volunteering, giving kids firsthand experience with generosity.
5. Turn experiences into adventures
Experiences don’t need to be big trips they can be small moments filled with anticipation and creativity. Inspired by ideas from ID Tech, you can build excitement by creating a scavenger hunt, crafting a countdown calendar, or making a themed piece of art before a family outing. Kids love the buildup as much as the event itself.
A simple walk through holiday lights, a visit to a local park, or preparing a meal together can feel like an adventure when you add just a bit of storytelling, mystery, or preparation.
This year, consider giving your children experiences that last longer than the holiday season. With a little intention—and inspiration from local organizations—they’ll remember the feelings, the traditions, and the time spent together far more than any package under the tree.