Author Archives: Bethany

DIY Valentine’s Classroom Gifts with Free Printables

Why DIY Classroom Valentines?

Personal: Kids love handing out something that feels “theirs.”
Budget‑friendly: Dollar store + printable tags = magic.
Teacher‑approved: Candy‑free options keep things simple and inclusive.
Fun to assemble: A perfect weekend project with your kiddo.

Punny Valentine’s Gift Ideas (With Matching Printable Tags)

These are the crowd‑pleasers — cute, clever, and easy to assemble.

**1. “You’re Berry Sweet!”**

Pair with: strawberry fruit snacks, strawberry pencils, or berry‑scented erasers. Perfect for classrooms that prefer low‑sugar treats.

**2. “You’re Just Write!”**

Pair with: pencils, gel pens, or mini notepads. A classic for a reason — practical and always appreciated.

**3. “I’m Stuck on You!”**

Pair with: stickers, sticky notes, slime, glue, tattoos, or washi tape. This one is always a hit.

4. “You Blow Me Away!”

Pair with: mini bubbles or bubble wands. Great for younger grades and outdoor fun.

**5. “You’re Beary Awesome!”**

Pair with: gummy bears (if allowed) or bear‑shaped erasers. Adorable and easy to assemble.

**6. “You’re Wheel‑y Cool!”**

Pair with: mini toy cars or pull‑back racers. Perfect for preschool and early elementary.

7. “You Color My World!”

Pair with: crayons, markers, or mini coloring sheets. A great candy‑free option that feels creative.

**8. “Valentine, you’re un-bee-lievable!”**

Pair with: Burt’s Bees, honey sticks, or anything bee‑themed. A sweet, budget‑friendly option that feels extra thoughtful.

9. “You make my heart POP!”

Pair with: pop-fidget toy, pop rocks, or popcorn. A quick, budget‑friendly option that feels exciting.

10. “You’re ex-STRAW special!”

Pair with: a cute or silly straw. A simple add‑on that makes any drink feel extra fun.

11. “You’re a cut above the rest!”

Pair with: fun kid scissors. A hands‑on treat that sparks imagination.

12. “You’re a real goal-getter, valentine”

Pair with: squishy balls or fidgets in the shape of soccer or footballs. A great sensory option with a game‑day twist.

13. “You Light Up My Life”

Pair with: glow sticks or other glow items from the dollar store. This fun and inexpensive gift is perfect for spreading a little extra brightness.

14. “You Make My Heart Smile, Valentine”

This one is my daughter’s favorite. Who doesn’t love a smiley face, am I right? Just include something with a smiley face. Anything. It can be jewelry, stickers, socks, pencils, stationery, candy. The possibilities are endless!

Still looking for more inspiration? Here’s a few other ideas to inspire you:

“You’re One in a Melon” (Watermelon themed trinkets or flavored candy)
“You’re the Zest” (lemon candy or gifts)
“You’re the best, hands down” (sticky hand toys, lotion, hand sanitizer, or hand soap)
“You’re the coolest, Valentine” (wintergreen mint, fake snow kit, or ice cube fidget)
“You were mint to be my teacher” (mint flavored candy and gum. Or even a mint plant!)
“You’re the highlight of my day, valentine” (Pack of highlighters)

Pair any of these with a cute printable tag and you’re golden.

Tips for Stress‑Free Valentine Prep

Start early: January is the sweet spot.
Batch the steps: Cut tags one night, assemble gifts the next.
Let kids help: They love tying ribbons, sticking tape, and signing their names.
Keep extras: There’s always one classmate added at the last minute.
Store everything in a bin: No more scrambling for scissors or tape.

Final Thoughts

DIY Valentine’s classroom gifts don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few clever puns, some candy‑free options, and adorable printable tags, you can create something your kids will be proud to hand out – and teachers will appreciate. It’s the perfect blend of creativity, practicality, and heart.

With coffee in one hand and a valentine pun in the other,

💛Bethany

Comfort Food Made Easy: A Mom’s Guide to Cooking with Kids

Easy Recipes Kids Can Help With

Winter nights call for comfort food. The kind that warms bellies, fills the house with cozy aromas, and brings everyone together around the table. But here’s the twist: these recipes aren’t just about feeding your family, they’re about including your family. With simple, kid‑friendly kitchen jobs built into each dish, dinner becomes less of a chore and more of a memory‑making moment. From slow cooker classics to playful DIY meals, these ideas will keep little hands busy, picky eaters happy, and moms feeling like the true CEO of cozy.

1. Slow Cooker Chicken & Noodles

Kid Job: Let them dump in the veggies and stir the noodles before serving.
Why It Works: Minimal prep, maximum cozy vibes. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken & Noodles

Course: Main Course

Ingredients

2 boneless chicken breasts
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups egg noodles
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
1 can cream of chicken soup
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Place chicken, broth, carrots, celery, and soup in slow cooker.
Cook on low 6–7 hours.
Shred chicken with two forks.
Add noodles, cook 30 minutes more until tender.

2. Loaded Baked Potato Bar

Kid Job: Kids can wash potatoes, sprinkle cheese, and add toppings.
Why It Works: Everyone customizes their own plate—no picky eater complaints!

Print Recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Bar

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes
Toppings: shredded cheese sour cream, bacon bits, broccoli, chives

Instructions

Scrub potatoes, poke with fork, and bake at 400°F for 45–60 minutes.
Set out toppings in bowls.
Slice potatoes open and let everyone build their own.

3. Mini Pita Pizzas

Kid Job: Spread sauce, sprinkle cheese, and add toppings.
Why It Works: Quick bake, endless topping combos, and guaranteed giggles.

Print Recipe

Mini Pita Pizzas

Ingredients

6 mini pitas
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella
Toppings: pepperoni, veggies, olives

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Spread sauce on pitas.
Add cheese and toppings.
Bake 8–10 minutes until cheese melts

4. Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Dippers

Kid Job: Butter bread slices and help cut sandwiches into strips.
Why It Works: Classic comfort food with a playful twist—perfect for dunking.

Print Recipe

Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Dippers

Ingredients

2 cans tomato soup
4 slices bread
4 slices cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Heat soup according to package directions.
Butter bread, add cheese, and grill until golden.
Cut sandwiches into strips for dipping.

5. Cheesy Cornbread Muffins

Kid Job: Stir batter and sprinkle cheese on top before baking.
Why It Works: Easy to make, fun to eat, and pairs with soups or chili.

Print Recipe

Cheesy Cornbread Muffins

Ingredients

1 box cornbread mix
1 egg
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Mix cornbread batter according to package.
Stir in cheese.
Pour into muffin tin and bake 15–20 minutes

6. Warm Apple Crisp

Kid Job: Mix oats, sugar, and cinnamon for the topping.
Why It Works: Sweet, cozy dessert that makes the whole house smell amazing.

Print Recipe

Warm Apple Crisp

Ingredients

4 apples sliced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup butter melted

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Place apples in baking dish.
Mix sugar, oats, flour, cinnamon, and butter for topping.
Sprinkle over apples.
Bake 30–35 minutes until bubbly.

Mom Tips

Prep Together: Assign age-appropriate tasks so kids feel proud of their contributions.
Make It Fun: Play music, wear aprons, and turn dinner into a mini cooking show.
Double Up: Cook extra for leftovers—comfort food tastes even better the next day.

Final Thought

These recipes aren’t just about comfort—they’re about connection. Letting kids stir, sprinkle, and assemble makes dinner prep fun and memorable. These easy recipes bring warmth to winter nights and give kids a chance to shine in the kitchen. And if you’re looking for more ways to keep little hands busy this winter, check out my Snow Day Survival Guide or Activities for Shorter Days posts packed with creative indoor activities for kids—perfect for snow days, cozy weekends, or anytime cabin fever strikes.

With coffee in one hand and a spoon in the other,

💛Bethany

Snow Day Magic: Indoor Activities Kids Will Love

Creative Indoor Activities for Kids When School Is Canceled

The snow is falling, the school text alert just buzzed, and suddenly you’re promoted to Chief Entertainment Officer of your household. Snow days can be magical, but they can also test a mom’s patience faster than you can say “hot cocoa.” After the snowman is built and the mittens are drying by the door, you’ll need a stash of cozy, creative indoor activities to keep the fun rolling. Here’s your ultimate survival guide packed with creative, low-stress indoor activities to keep the kids busy, happy, and (mostly) off screens.

1. DIY Snow-Themed Crafts

Paper Snowflakes: Classic, easy, and mess-free. Challenge the kids to make the most intricate designs.
Snow Globe Jars: Mason jars + glitter + water + a tiny toy = instant winter wonderland.
Cotton Ball Snowmen: Glue, googly eyes, and construction paper hats—adorable and simple.

2. Kitchen Adventures

Snow Day Snack Mix: Pretzels, marshmallows, chocolate chips, and popcorn tossed together.
Bake & Decorate Cookies: Let the kids go wild with frosting and sprinkles.
Hot Cocoa Bar: Set out whipped cream, candy canes, and marshmallows for a cozy DIY station.

3. Indoor Energy Burners

Living Room Obstacle Course: Pillows, chairs, and blankets become tunnels and hurdles.
Dance Party: Crank up a playlist and let them burn off cabin fever.
Balloon Volleyball: A balloon + a piece of string across the room = hours of giggles.

4. Imagination Stations

Snow Day Theater: Kids write a short play, make costumes from old clothes, and perform.
Indoor Camping: Pitch a tent (or blanket fort), add flashlights, and tell stories.
Story Dice: Roll dice with pictures (or make your own) to spark silly storytelling.

5. Quiet Time Activities

Puzzle Challenge: See who can finish their section first.
Coloring Contest: Print winter-themed coloring sheets and let creativity shine.
Read-Aloud Marathon: Pick a family favorite and take turns reading chapters.

Mom Survival Tips

Prep a “Snow Day Box”: Keep a stash of craft supplies, puzzles, and snacks ready for surprise cancellations.
Set Mini Schedules: Break the day into chunks—crafts, snacks, play, quiet time—to keep things flowing.
Embrace the Chaos: Remember, these are the days your kids will remember most. Messy kitchens and blanket forts are part of the magic.

Final Thought

Snow days don’t have to mean endless screen time or frazzled moms. With a little creativity (and maybe an extra cup of coffee), you can turn a canceled school day into a cozy, joy-filled family memory.

With coffee in one hand and a snowball in the other,

💛 Bethany

Word of the Year: How Moms Can Choose One

A guide to setting an intentional theme for parenting and personal life

Every January, we’re bombarded with resolutions: eat healthier, exercise more, get organized. But as moms, our lives rarely fit neatly into checklists. Between school drop-offs, late-night science projects, and endless laundry, resolutions can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve fallen in love with the idea of choosing a Word of the Year instead.

A single word becomes your compass—a theme that guides decisions, grounds you in chaos, and reminds you of what matters most.

Why a Word of the Year Works for Moms

Simple & Flexible: Unlike rigid resolutions, a word adapts to your season of life.
Intentional: It keeps you focused on values rather than tasks.
Empowering: It’s a reminder that growth doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be present.

How to Choose Your Word

Reflect on the Past Year Ask yourself: What did I learn? What challenged me? What do I want more (or less) of?
Identify Your Priorities Think about motherhood and personal life. Do you crave more patience, joy, balance, or courage?
Brainstorm Words Write down words that resonate. Don’t overthink—just let them flow.
Test Your Word Imagine saying: “This year, I choose [word].” Does it feel empowering? Does it fit both your parenting and personal life?

Word Inspiration for Moms

Grace – for the messy moments.
Joy – for finding laughter in chaos.
Balance – for juggling family and self-care.
Courage – for setting boundaries and trying new things.
Presence – for slowing down and savoring small moments.

Final Thought

Choosing a Word of the Year isn’t about perfection—it’s about direction. As moms, we don’t need more pressure; we need reminders of what matters most. Whether your word is patience, joy, or growth, let it guide you through the beautiful, bewildering dance of motherhood in 2026.

Free Worksheet for Moms

To make it even easier, I’ve created a free printable worksheet to help you reflect, brainstorm, and choose your Word of the Year. It’s a simple guide with prompts and space to jot down ideas—perfect for busy moms who want clarity without the overwhelm. Download it, grab a cup of coffee, and let your word find you!

What word are you choosing this year? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear your theme!

With coffee in one hand and a word of the year in the other,

💛 Bethany

What My Tween Taught Me This Year: Wrapping Up 2025

A mix of humor, growth, and unexpected wisdom bombs from the front lines of motherhood.

This year, my tween taught me that eye rolls can be a form of punctuation, that silence sometimes speaks louder than sass, and that growing up is a beautiful, bewildering dance between independence and still needing your mom to find the missing sock.

Here are just a few of the lessons I didn’t expect to learn—but absolutely needed:

1. Confidence Isn’t Always Loud

She strolled into school rocking mismatched socks and her favorite western boots. When I asked if she wanted to swap them out, she simply shrugged and said, “Why? I like it.” In that instant, I realized confidence isn’t about blending in—it’s about owning who you are and showing up unapologetically yourself.

2. Feelings Are Messy—and That’s Okay

There were tears over group chats, friend drama, and math homework that “literally makes no sense.” But instead of fixing everything, I learned to sit beside her in the mess. She didn’t need a solution—she needed a safe space to feel.

3. Boundaries Are Brave

She told a friend “no” this year. Not rudely, not dramatically—just firmly. And then she told me how hard it was. Watching her navigate that moment made me realize how often we, as moms, forget to set our own boundaries. She reminded me that saying “no” is an act of self-respect.

4. Humor Is a Lifeline

From sarcastic comebacks to inside jokes about our black lab’s dramatic sighs, she taught me that laughter is how we survive the hard days. Especially when the Wi-Fi goes out or someone forgets their science project until 9:47 p.m.

5. She’s Becoming Her Own Person—and That’s the Goal

She’s not a mini-me. She’s a whole, complex, creative soul who loves weird facts, doodling on her hands, and changing her mind about everything. And while I sometimes miss the days of bedtime stories and sticky hugs, I’m in awe of the person she’s becoming.

Final Thought

Motherhood in the tween years is like watching a butterfly emerge—equal parts wonder and worry. But this year, my daughter reminded me that growth isn’t always graceful, and love doesn’t always look like agreement. Sometimes, it looks like showing up, listening hard, and laughing through the chaos.

What’s something your child taught you this year? Drop it in the comments or write them a note—you might be surprised what comes out.

With a coffee in one hand and lessons in the other,

💛Bethany

Family-Friendly Countdown: Hourly Activities to Ring in the New Year

Forget the fancy galas and champagne toasts—this New Year’s Eve is all about pajamas, popcorn, and playful chaos. Whether you’re hosting a mini party or just trying to keep the kids entertained until midnight (or, let’s be real, 9:00 PM), this family-friendly countdown is packed with hourly mini-games, crafts, and giggle-worthy challenges.

Set a timer, prep your printable kit, and let the fun begin!

🕒 6:00 PM – DIY Party Hats

Kick off the night with creativity! Break out the glitter, pom-poms, and printable hat templates. Let everyone design their own “official countdown crown.” Bonus: snap a photo of each masterpiece for a memory collage.

🕖 7:00 PM – Balloon Pop Challenge

Fill balloons with silly dares or trivia questions, then pop one every hour. Ideas include:

“Do your best robot dance”
“Name 5 things you loved about this year”
“Sing the chorus of your favorite song”

The suspense of waiting for the next balloon keeps the energy high!

🕗 8:00 PM – Dance-Off Hour

Turn up the music and let the living room become a disco. Create themed playlists like:

Mom’s Throwback Jams (hello, 90s hits!)
Tween Bops (current favorites for the kids)

Award silly prizes like “Most Dramatic Spin” or “Best Air Guitar.”

🕘 9:00 PM – New Year’s Bingo

Print bingo cards and add family-friendly prompts such as:

“Someone yawns”
“A snack is spilled”
“Someone says ‘2026 is our year!’”

First one to shout “BINGO!” gets dibs on the next snack round.

🕙 10:00 PM – Time Capsule Craft

Gather slips of paper and write down favorite memories, funny quotes, or goals for next year. Seal them in a decorated jar or envelope to open next NYE. This tradition grows sweeter each year.

🕚 11:00 PM – Mocktail Mixology

Let kids play bartender with juice, soda, and fruit garnishes. Add straw flags and drink tags like:

“Fizzolution”
“Midnight Magic”

Taste-test each creation and vote on the “House Favorite.”

🕛 12:00 AM – Confetti Countdown & Toast

Cue the countdown, toss the confetti (or tissue paper squares for easy cleanup), and toast with your mocktails. Don’t forget a group selfie with your DIY hats—it’s the perfect way to capture the joy of ringing in the new year together.

Bonus: Ideas to Sprinkle In

Photo Booth Corner (anytime): Hang a sparkly backdrop (or a blanket!) and set out props like goofy glasses, boas, and hats. Snap silly photos throughout the night for a mini “yearbook.”
Snack Decorating Station (around 8:30 PM): Let kids decorate cookies, popcorn bags, or cupcakes with sprinkles and icing. It doubles as an activity and a treat.
Glow Stick Limbo (after Dance-Off Hour): Turn off the lights, grab glow sticks, and see who can limbo the lowest.
Countdown Playlist (leading to midnight): Create a playlist with one song per year from the past decade—each track is a mini time machine.

✨ Pro Tips for Parents:

If your crew won’t make it to midnight, shift the countdown earlier. The fun is in the activities, not the clock!

Prep all printables and supplies earlier in the day so you’re not scrambling mid-countdown.

Use disposable tablecloths for craft stations—easy cleanup means more time for fun.

Ring in the Fun!

Forget the stress of planning—this New Year’s Eve is all about laughter, creativity, and cozy chaos. With hourly games, crafts, and challenges, you’ve got everything you need to keep the countdown magical (whether you make it to midnight or not!).

✨ Ready to make it even easier? 👉 Download your NYE Starter Kit packed with printable hats, bingo cards, balloon dares, and more. It’s the perfect way to kick off your family celebration without the prep hassle.

Here’s to confetti, giggles, and a fresh start—cheers to 2026! 🥂🎉

With a coffee in one hand and a party hat in the other,

💛Bethany

Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt: Free Printable

Growing up, one of my favorite Christmas Eve traditions was piling into the car with my family, driving through neighborhoods, and marveling at the dazzling Christmas lights. It was simple, magical, and always filled with laughter as we pointed out our favorite displays. Now that I have my own family, I’ve carried this tradition forward—only with a playful twist: a Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt!

Instead of just admiring the lights, we turn it into a game. Each person gets a list of items to spot, and the first one to check them all off wins bragging rights (and maybe a candy cane prize). It keeps everyone engaged, adds a little friendly competition, and makes the night even more memorable.

Scavenger Hunt List

Here are some fun items to include on your Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt:

🎅 Santa Claus (bonus points if he’s on a sleigh!)
🦌 Reindeer (extra fun if they’re flying)
🌟 A giant star on top of a tree
❄️ Snowman family
🎁 Oversized wrapped presents in a yard display
🕯️ Candles glowing in windows
🚂 A train made of lights
🎄 Christmas tree decorated outside
🏠 House with all-white lights (classic elegance!)
🌈 House with multi-colored lights (the more colors, the better)
⛄ Inflatable holiday character (Grinch, Olaf, or Frosty)
🔔 Bells or wreaths made of lights
🐧 A penguin or polar bear display
✨ Icicle lights hanging from the roofline
🎶 Musical light show (bonus if you catch one synced to carols)

How to Play

Print out the scavenger hunt list for each family member.
Bring along clipboards or just use your phone to check items off.
Decide on a prize for the winner (hot cocoa, first pick of Christmas cookies, or a silly holiday crown).
Wear your matching Christmas pajamas.
Don’t forget to play Christmas music in the car—it sets the mood perfectly!

Grab Your Free Scavenger Hunt Printable!

Ready to turn your Christmas light drive into a memory-making adventure? Download our festive scavenger hunt checklist and let the holiday magic begin! It’s packed with cheerful icons, easy-to-spot items, and just the right amount of friendly competition to keep the whole family giggling.

🎄 Click below to print your copy and make this tradition your own!

Final Touch

This tradition is more than just looking at lights—it’s about creating memories together. Whether you’re bundled up in the car or strolling through a neighborhood, the scavenger hunt adds a spark of joy to an already magical night.

With coffee in one hand and a clipboard in the other,

💛 Bethany

Christmas Lights Scavenger Hunt Download

Simple Steps to a Festive DIY Holiday Card Station

There’s something magical about slowing down during the holiday hustle to write a card that’s more than just “Happy Holidays.” If you’re crafting with kids, hosting a card-making night, or just want to sprinkle some extra love into your season, a Holiday Card Station is the perfect way to make it happen.

And yes—printables, doodles, and encouragement notes are included. Because we don’t do boring around here.

What Is a Holiday Card Station?

It’s a cozy corner (or kitchen table takeover) where creativity meets kindness. Think of it as a mini workshop for heartfelt messages, silly sketches, and festive flair. It’s part craft zone, part writing nook, and 100% memory-making magic.

What to Include in Your Setup

1. Printable Prompts Not everyone knows what to write—and that’s okay! Offer a mix of sweet, silly, and thoughtful prompts like:

“One thing I love about you…”
“Favorite memory from this year…”
“If I could gift you one magical thing…”
“You’re the marshmallow in my cocoa.”

These help kids (and grown-ups) get past the blank-card stare and into the good stuff.

2. Doodle Space Add blank cards or sheets with borders for kids to draw snowmen, stars, or their own holiday masterpieces. Bonus: include a few “draw-your-own” templates like ornament outlines or gingerbread people. Let the glitter fly.

3. Encouragement Notes Create a stack of pre-written affirmations or kindness cards that guests can tuck into their holiday cards. Examples:

“You make the season brighter.”
“Your kindness is a gift.”
“You’re the reason glitter exists.”
“You’re the cozy in my cocoa.”

These are perfect for adding a little extra heart to each envelope.

4. Supplies Galore Stock your station with:

Colored pens, markers, and crayons
Stickers, washi tape, and stamps
Envelopes and address labels
Hot cocoa (because obviously)

Optional: add a mini sign that says “Write, Doodle, Spread Joy” to set the tone.

Why We Love It

This tradition isn’t just about cards—it’s about connection. Watching your daughter write “I love you” in her own wobbly handwriting or doodle a reindeer with five antlers? That’s the good stuff. It’s screen-free, heart-full, and totally worth the glitter explosion.

Plus, it’s a great way to involve kids in the spirit of giving. Whether they’re making cards for grandparents, teachers, or neighbors, they’re learning that kindness is a gift—and creativity is the wrapping.

Bonus Ideas for Extra Magic

Add a mailbox or basket for finished cards
Create a “Card for Someone Who Needs One” pile for neighbors, teachers, or nursing homes
Use themed stamps or stickers for extra flair
Make it a party: invite friends over for cocoa, crafts, and card-making

✂️ Free Printable Bundle

Want to make setup even easier? Grab my free printable bundle with:

Writing prompts
Doodle templates
Encouragement notes
Station signage

Just print, prep, and let the creativity flow.

Holiday Card Station Bundle Download

Whether you’re starting a new tradition or adding a twist to an old one, a Holiday Card Station is the perfect way to celebrate the season with heart, humor, and a whole lot of sparkle. So grab your cocoa, clear the table, and let the kindness begin.

With coffee in one hand and a homemade card in the other,

💛Bethany

Ultimate Holiday Movie Bingo Night: Watch, Snack, Play!

Every year, our family cozies up with cocoa and soft blankets to watch the holiday movie trifecta: Elf, Home Alone, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It’s tradition. It’s comfort. It’s chaos (especially when someone quotes every line of Elf before Buddy even says it).
But this year, we’re shaking things up—with Holiday Movie Bingo! I created themed bingo cards for each movie, packed with iconic quotes, hilarious moments, and festive visuals. Whether it’s Buddy chugging syrup, Kevin setting booby traps, or the Grinch’s heart growing three sizes, there’s a square for it. And for those who want to customize their own chaos? I’ve included blank bingo cards so you can fill in your favorite moments.

Elf Bingo + Snack Pairings

Buddy the Elf brings sugar, sparkle, and syrup to every scene. So naturally, our snack ideas follow suit:

Mini syrup shooters (tiny cups of maple syrup with french toast sticks)
Snowball truffles (white chocolate-coated cake balls)
“Elf trail mix” (M&Ms, mini marshmallows, gummy bears, cereal, and chocolate chips)
World’s Best Cup of Cocoa (extra whipped cream, of course)
Candy cane pretzel rods (dipped in white chocolate and crushed peppermint)

Home Alone Bingo + Snack Pairings

Kevin McCallister is the king of solo snacking and trap-setting. Here’s what we’re munching:

Cheese pizza bites (because Buzz ate the last slice)
Mac & cheese cups (served before 9pm sharp)
“Booby trap” snack mix (pretzels, mini marshmallows, red hots, and goldfish)
Gold tooth cookies (sugar cookies with gold sprinkles or edible glitter)
“Wet Bandit” punch (blue raspberry soda + gummy worms)

Grinch Bingo + Snack Pairings

Whether you love the animated classic or Jim Carrey’s green mischief, these snacks are Whoville-approved:

Roast Beast sliders (mini roast beef sandwiches)
Grinch guac & chips (served with red bell pepper strips for festive flair)
Grinch kabobs (green grapes, banana slices, strawberries, and mini marshmallows stacked on skewers)
Cindy Lou Who cupcakes (pink frosting + heart sprinkles)
Green punch (lime sherbet + lemon-lime soda)

How to Play

Print your bingo cards (themed or blank).
Pick your movie and snacks.
Mark off squares as you spot quotes, scenes, or chaos.
First to get five in a row—horizontal, vertical, or diagonal—shouts “Bingo!” and wins a prize, bragging rights, or control of the remote.

🎬 Where to Watch the Movies

Ready to play Holiday Movie Bingo? Here’s where you can stream each festive favorite—check JustWatch for the most up-to-date availability!

Elf (2003)

Buddy’s syrup-chugging charm never gets old. Streaming info: Available on HBO Max, Hulu (with HBO add-on), and other platforms. → Find Elf on JustWatch

Home Alone (1990)

Kevin’s booby traps and solo snacking are holiday gold. Streaming info: Watch on Disney+ or rent via Amazon, YouTube, and more. → Find Home Alone on JustWatch

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000, Jim Carrey)

The Grinch’s heart grows three sizes—and so does the fun. Streaming info: Available on Peacock and other services. → Find the Grinch on JustWatch

This new tradition is already a hit in our house. It keeps everyone engaged (even the tweens), sparks laughter, and adds a playful twist to our favorite holiday films. Whether you’re hosting a movie night or just looking for a way to make the classics feel fresh again, Holiday Movie Bingo is a festive win.

Download your bingo cards below and let the holiday movies begin!

Grinch Bingo Download

Home Alone Bingo Download

elf bingo Download

With coffee in one hand and a remote control in the other,

💛 Bethany

Jingle Bell Rock…Paper…Scissors: Easy Holiday Games for All Ages

Every Christmas, my family dives headfirst into what we lovingly call the Annual Reindeer Games—a chaotic, cocoa-fueled tradition packed with laughter, friendly competition, and the occasional broken candy cane. Whether it’s a classroom party, a cozy night in, or a full-blown holiday bash, games are our go-to way to make memories and burn off those extra sugar cookies. So if you’re looking to add some jingle to your gathering, here are our favorite Christmas games that are here to sleigh—some fast-paced, some sneaky, all guaranteed to bring the fun.

These fast-paced challenges are perfect for short attention spans and big energy. Set a timer, crank the Christmas playlist, and let the games begin.

🎁 Wrap It Like It’s Hot

Teams with 2 players race to wrap a small box using only one hand each. Bonus points for bows and sass.

🍪 Cookie Face

Place a holiday cookie on each player’s forehead. They must get it to their mouth using only facial muscles—no hands allowed. Warning: may cause uncontrollable giggling.

🎅 Santa’s Beard Blow

Place cotton balls on a table. Players must blow them across using a straw—no hands, just lung power and determination.

🎄 Ornament Stack

Using plastic ornaments, players try to stack as many as possible in one minute. It’s harder than it looks. Especially with glitter involved.

🔔 Jingle Bell Toss

Set up cups labeled with point values. Players toss jingle bells into the cups to score. Great for teams or solo rounds.

More Festive Fun

🧦 Mystery Stocking Game

Fill a stocking with 10–15 random holiday items (no peeking!). Each player gets 30 seconds to feel inside and jot down their guesses. Once everyone’s had a turn, reveal the contents and tally the scores. Winner gets bragging rights—or first dibs on dessert.

❄️ Snowball Spoon Relay

Use cotton balls as “snowballs” and race to transfer them using a spoon. Great for teams and hallway races.

🎶 Christmas Carol Charades

Act out classic carols without singing. “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” is always a hit.

🦌 Reindeer Antler Ring Toss

Grab a reindeer antler headband and some rings (or glow bracelets). Players toss rings onto the antlers—bonus points for style.

📦 Pass the Present

Wrap a small gift in multiple layers. Players pass it around while music plays. When the music stops, whoever’s holding it unwraps one layer. Keep going until the final gift is revealed!

🍭Candy Cane Grab (Card Game Edition)

I saved the best for last. This one is a big hit with my family! It’s part card game, part candy cane chaos.

How to Play:

Arrange candy canes in a circle—one fewer than the number of players (just like musical chairs).
Deal four cards to each player. The dealer keeps five and starts the game by passing one card face down to the left.
Each player picks up the card passed to them, then discards one to their left. The last player creates a discard pile (aka the “garbage pile”).
Keep passing until someone gets four of a kind. When they do, they quietly (or dramatically) grab a candy cane.
Once one person grabs a cane, everyone scrambles to grab one. The player left empty-handed either:
Gets a letter (spell C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S or any word you choose), or is out immediately for a quick-play version.

Bonus twist: If someone breaks a candy cane in the frenzy, they earn two letters—oops.

Keep playing until one person remains—the ultimate candy cane champion.

Tinsel-Topped Takeaways

Whether you’re wrangling tweens, entertaining cousins, or just trying to survive until bedtime, these games bring the joy, the jingle, and just enough chaos to make memories. So grab your timer, stuff that stocking, and let the holiday games begin.

And if you’ve got a favorite Christmas game that’s earned legendary status in your house, drop it in the comments. I’m always on the hunt for new ways to spice up our Annual Reindeer Games.

With coffee in one hand and a stopwatch in the other,

💛 Bethany

✨ Ready to keep the holiday fun rolling? Once the games wind down and the candy canes are claimed, it’s the perfect time to dream up even more merry moments. From twinkly traditions to cozy family adventures, my Holiday Bucket List is packed with ideas to make the season sparkle beyond game night. Head over and see how many you can check off this year—you might just find a new tradition to treasure.