By Alex Cohen 

The holidays bring a wonderful mix of excitement, creativity and family time; but they can also mean big changes in routines, new sensory experiences, and sometimes a little bit of chaos! 

As an Occupational Therapist, I love helping families find simple, meaningful ways to stay connected and engaged, while working on different skills! Here are some activity ideas to support participation, development and regulation this holiday season. 

Sensory activities: 

• The holidays may be a sensory overload for some children (and adults!); try to make a cozy corner or a quiet space with pillows, soft lights, weighted teddies and a favourite toy for calm breaks. 
• Yoga ball squashes to regulate your little one. 
• Bake together – discover different textures! 
• Hide small toys in rice or foam and have your child find them using their hands. 
• Get some movement input in through swinging on the swings or going down the slide at the park. 

Gross motor activities: 

• Indoor obstacle courses using pillows, chairs, couches, blankets, etc! This works on motor planning and developing our big muscles.
• Wheelbarrow walk races with the whole family to work on upper body strength and teamwork.
• Animal walk races – walk like a crab, hop like a bunny, waddle like a duck! 

Fine motor activities: 

• Decorating cookies or cupcakes; including squeezing icing, rolling dough, and sprinkling toppings – all these work on the little hand muscles. 
• Gift wrapping together; including tearing tape, tying ribbons and folding paper – all these work on fine motor skills and bilateral integration.  
• Beading necklaces or pasta chains works on hand-eye coordination, bilateral coordination and fine motor skills. 
• Using squeezy toys in the bath! 

Visual perceptual activities: 

• Playing eye-spy during bed-time stories or in the car. 
• Puzzles with the whole family! 
• Building with Lego and Magnatiles (and making it a bit harder by giving your child a picture to copy). 

Top Tips:

Keeping routines during the holidays: 

School breaks often mean disrupted schedules, which can be tricky for children who benefit from structure. A little routine helps everyone feel safe and balanced.

• Keep morning and bedtime routines consistent: Even if bedtimes shift a little, try to follow the same sequence (bath, story, lights out).
• Use visual schedules to outline each day – include fun plans, chores, and downtime.
• Balance activity and rest: Alternate busy outings with quiet home time.

Special Connection Time: 

Amid the holiday hustle, intentional moments of connection matter most.

• Share one “check-in moment” a day: a walk, reading time, or simply talking before bed.
• Involve children in traditions or planning: choosing a recipe, setting the table, or decorating together helps build confidence and belonging.
• Remember, it’s about presence, not perfection.

Wishing you a calm, creative, and joy-filled holiday season!