Quite a new tradition at Christmas is the Christmas Eve box. It can help to break down the anticipation of Christmas. It can also make the moment more magical and atmospheric for everyone. When it first started the box would include a dvd to watch, Christmas themed pyjamas and a hot chocolate with a bag of marshmallows. However, now there seems to be more and more extravagant items going into the box.

Making the choice of what to go into this box should be easy but there’s so much else going on. I’m going to give you a few ideas on what to put in that box to not only keep the children amused but for you all to enjoy the day before Christmas.

Treats

Little treats that you don’t need to spend alot of money on is a great option if you’re on a budget. The obivous one being sweets. However if you’re worried about the sugar level maybe a bag of corn that needs to be popped in preparation of a film!

Another option is treat little pocket puzzle or toy, these could also be great stocking fillers. There are some really good ones out there at the moment:
Mini plush toys Mini Kinetic Sand Playfoam Geomag Fidget Toy IQ Busters or Slime

Other ideas are things that you can do as a family like baking. You could put in a cake mix to do together which could be your supper whilst watching a traditional Christmas film. Games as a family are also a good idea. This is something that you will always have for those many rainy days (well here in the UK.) I recently discovered The Fuzzies which is a very addictive game a bit like Jenga but funnier. It will have you on the edge of your seat with excitement.

The Christmas magic

One of the things I will be doing is reading a Christmas themed book over the period. What better book to choose than a magical story to excite and entice children. I recently discovered a company called Elf Land and the story ‘The Lost Wish’ which has been written beautifully by Clare Anderson and Emily Jacobs.

Join Siena, her loyal loving dog Buddy and her best friend Gabi as they inadvertently set off on a remarkable journey through a mystical land that’s filled with adventures.

Siena is a bright and brave little girl, who one cold and wintry night steps with Buddy and Gabi through a magical archway into Elfland. Along their journey they encounter friendly elves, dangerous dragons, flying pixies and talking rats as they set upon an important mission to find The Lost Wish and with it save the dreams of a thousand children.

The Lost Wish has been written for young readers aged 5+. A wonderful book for parents, caregivers and older siblings to read together and will appeal to children of all ages.

It’s the perfect family bedtime read.

Elf Land UK

Along with this book, they have partnered up with Sensory Retreats and offer wellbeing products for children. ‘Sleepy Elf‘ self-heating eye masks, pillow spray and a relaxing pulse point oil especially designed and safe for children. They also sell limited gift bags which includes items along with a magic wand.

If you visit their website, the whole story of who they are is there. Elf Land is based in Evenley Woods in Northamptonshire. It can also be booked to visit with the children so they can have a magical time in the build up to Christmas.

It is also useful to be extra prepared, why not do this now and put up somewhere so you don’t need to worry about until it’s time to leave it out on Christmas Eve?

Whatever you decide to do Christmas Eve it will be special. There are many ways you can make it magical without spending lots of money. We always leave out treats for Father Christmas and Rudolf. I will also make boot prints from the fire place to the tree where the gifts are left. Putting down a bit of fake snow and glitter on the floor to make extra special memories.