Whether you’re gathering with family and loved ones in person or virtually this year, you can find ways to express your love and appreciation for them in any holiday setting. Be intentional and thoughtful with your time spent together, and everyone will remember this holiday season as a joyful one. Use your time together to celebrate how you have all persevered through these difficult times and pulled together as a family team.

Schedule Activities and Outings

Activities during the holiday break are important. Everyone can enjoy a drive through the holiday lights neighborhoods, a trek to that perfect snowy spot for a family pic, or a visit to your area’s outdoor attractions (weather permitting) like the zoo, ice skating rink or arboretum.

Cook Up Some Familiar Traditions

Make special cocoa with marshmallows, bake cookies, or prepare a breakfast casserole the night before. Involve little ones in these type of kitchen-centric traditions for the holidays that are simple ways to gather with love.

Share Your Love with Other Families

Make holiday treats for a neighbor, rake their leaves or shovel their snow. Volunteer together as a family cleaning up a park or donating groceries to your local foodbank. Show your family how gathering with love means sharing with others.

Plan for the Future

Make time with your family during the holidays to reflect on the past year, and plan for the future. Give everyone a turn talking about their favorite things and their big dreams for next year.