No matter what age my kids happen to be, the holiday season is their absolute favorite, and not for the reason you’d think. Year after year, my kids recall the little things — the hikes we take on the day right after a holiday, the times we adopted a family, choosing gifts and loading their pantries with food. I’m convinced that, no matter how simple, the choices we make during the holidays contribute to overall family wellness.
With all the hustle and bustle this time of year, it’s easy to lose sight of the deeper joys of the season. With a little intention, you can make the holidays more meaningful, building stronger connections, teaching important values, and creating memories that last. From local traditions in metro Detroit to helpful tips from the experts at Henry Ford Health, this guide is full of simple ways to embrace the true spirit of the season.
Why a meaningful holiday matters to your family
Making the holidays meaningful can make all the difference. Here’s why:
- Strengthens family bonds
Sharing traditions like baking, decorating, or just spending time together helps families feel closer. Psychiatrist Andrew New of Henry Ford Health recommends looping in out-of-town family members virtually whenever possible. This helps reduce isolation. - Teaches gratitude and generosity
Acts of kindness, like donating or volunteering, show kids how important it is to care for others. Dr. New suggests creating a gratitude jar, adding words of thanks on small pieces of paper. You can choose a time to read these — and then fill the jar again and again. - Reduces holiday stress
Focusing on connection instead of perfection makes the season feel joyful instead of overwhelming. - Creates lasting memories
Simple rituals — telling stories, lighting candles or making a favorite recipe — become traditions your kids will treasure.
By focusing on what matters, you can make this holiday season one to remember.
What are some holiday traditions in metro Detroit?
Starting a new family tradition is a great way to make the holidays special and connect with your community. Here are a few ideas:
- Take a winter solstice walk
Take a peaceful walk at a favorite nature spot, like Belle Isle or any of the Huron-Clinton Metroparks to enjoy nature and reflect on the season. Ask your kids to share their thoughts about the winter solstice and how it helps shape the transition to winter. - Adopt a family or volunteer
Help those in need by donating gifts or food through local programs like Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit, teaching kids the joy of giving. - Celebrate Kwanzaa at the Wright Museum
Join the Charles H. Wright Museum for music, dance, and storytelling to honor African heritage and community, visit during Noel Night or just take time to learn from the museum exhibits. - Enjoy family ice skating at Campus Martius
Take advantage of skating season in downtown Detroit by making it a new family holiday tradition. This will be an experience your kids will look forward to all year long. - Plan a family walk each night — and start tonight!
The whole season is an opportunity to sample foods you might not seek out the rest of the year. Now is the time to create a healthy habit and offset some of those extra calories, too. “Use this outdoor time to make more memories in the crisp, cool air,” says Dr. New. You’d be surprised by the meaningful impact this one simple tip will have on your family’s wellness.
Expertise provided by Henry Ford Health. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Your Top Kids Health Questions Answered!
