December always feels like a whirlwind of a month. Things are busy, routines are different, there are holidays, celebrations, presents and sweets. It’s okay to join the hustle and bustle and make the  most of what the season has to offer. It’s also okay to slow down, say no, and enjoy the little moments while you still have littles.

There is beauty in the simplicity and no greater gift than experiencing the wonder of the holiday season through the eyes of a child. If you’re looking for ways for Christmas to be a little less commercial this year, we have some tips for you:

#1 Go Outside. Take a nature walk, look for pinecones, pine needles, and the changing colors in leaves. Use the natural materials for loose parts, as paint brushes, with water or playdough.

#2 Skip the Naughty and Nice. Focus instead on the positive behaviors we want to see. Ask children how they have been helpful, kind, or shared happiness with someone else. Make a kindness advent calendar with older children that spreads cheer and joy each day. Help them see when others have chosen to be helpful and kind.

#3 Focus on Giving. Have children go through their bedrooms, closets, and playrooms to donate gently used items to shelters. Collect canned goods for a local food bank. Write thank you notes for the holiday cards you’ve received. Draw pictures for a nearby assisted living center to add cheer to someone’s room. Bake cookies to share with your neighbors.

Start a “Christmas Spirit” jar and add a marble for acts of kindness, helpfulness, and giving. Decide on something special for when the jar is full. Slow down and enjoy the true meaning of the season.