Mama, it’s finally here! Sleepy, slippered mornings waking up over hot coffee.

Winter light dancing across the floorboards. Mittened hands, cold noses, the smell of pine everywhere. Yes, the holiday season is officially upon us. And I think we can all agree that, after the year we’ve had, we need something worth celebrating. 

This Christmas Eve, you’ll find my family and me making our traditional raclette dinner. (Gooey cheese melted over bread and veggies — what’s not to love?!) And we will greet Christmas morning with panettone French toast as we always do. But some traditions will necessarily change. There’s light at the end of this crazy dark tunnel we call 2020, but the pandemic is still upon us, and so not everything is Christmas-as-usual.

With that in mind, I wanted to share a few ideas to help you make this a holiday season to remember. I know, I know — I’m not Oprah. But hopefully this list of family-friendly traditions and gift ideas (for your kids, for new parents in your life, or even yourself) is more attainable and, as a result, even more helpful. There are only so many puppy hoodies you can give away, after all.

Parenting Done Right

One of the best things about the holidays is how they make it easy to nail it in the parenting department. Cookies, books, decorations — sometimes it’s the simple stuff that kids (and parents) remember most. Here are three pandemic-proof ideas to help you get into the spirit of things:

1. Build a LEGO gingerbread house. You get all the Christmas vibes with none of the gloppy mess!

2. Make Christmas cookies from scratch and decorate them with as many sprinkles as humanly possible.

3. Read a favorite holiday book every day. Ours is When Santa Was a Baby, both for its humorous spin and its heartwarming message.

Gifts for Bookworms

Light up your little reader’s life with these foolproof page-turners.

1.  The Indestructibles series: Perfect for new parents or anyone with a toddler, this line of books combines engaging illustrations and simple themes with “pages” that can withstand virtually anything your little one can dish out.

2. The Pout-Pout Fish: So much of motherhood is spent trying to turn sour attitudes into something sweeter. Let this book do the heavy lifting for once.

3.  Chrysanthemum: Standing up to bullies and finding your true self? This book covers all the essentials.

4.  The Toot & Puddle series: Friendship and charming illustrations make this series by Holly Hobbie a hands-down win.

5.  Strictly No Elephants: This book does double duty with an entertaining story and an important message of inclusivity.

6.  The Wonderful Things You Will Be: This lovingly whimsical storyline lives up to the mesmerizing illustrations by Emily Winfield Martin.

7.  Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: Biographies of ballerinas, queens, inventors, and other role models become as fascinating as fairy tales thanks to some clever storytelling.

8. The Rabbit Listened: This sweet story underscores the value of being a good listener.

9. Ada Twist, Scientist: Rhyming text, a strong female protagonist, a celebration of STEM-inclined curiosity — this book ticks all the boxes.

10. The Little Gardener: Persistence is key in this tale of a gardener who learns to believe in himself.

11. Little People, BIG DREAMS box set: Inspiring Writers: What do Maya Angelou, Jane Austen, and Anne Frank have in common? They’re the “inspiring writers” featured in this trio of biographies for kids.

Gifts for Kids

Bring the magic to Christmas morning. 

1. Boat and Waves Stacking Toy by The Wandering Workshop: Handmade and with the option to personalize it, this is an heirloom to treasure.

2. Forest Elf by Fabelab: Inspire a flight of fancy in your little ones with this autumn-hued doll crafted from 100-percent organic cotton.

3. LeleLerele Doll: Perfect for an older child who wants a doll with a little more flair…but that is as cuddly as her lovey.

4. Espresso Machine by Tender Leaf: Just like Mama! Your littles can make their own morning joe with this colorful kid version.

5. Vet Set by Plan Toys: Replete with X-rays and a stethoscope, this playset is perfect for animal lovers of every age.

6. USA Puzzle by Puzzle + Poster: Give your littles a head start on geography class.

7. Rainbow Craft Kit: Even if crafting isn’t your thing, your kids will delight in this carryall of pom poms, beads, felt, glitter sheets, and more. (So much more.)

8. Science and STEM crates by KiwiCo: With options for kids of every age, these kits encourage creativity.

Gifts for New Parents

A new baby is the best present ever. But this list offers up some close seconds.

1. Teether Sets by Lucy Darling: What makes your baby’s drooly teething moments even cuter? Stylish teether sets!

2. Deluxe Newborn Gift Boxes by Modern Mommy Doc: All the essentials as curated by Modern Mommy Doc.

3. Barney Owl Chick by Jellycat: Every baby needs a lovey, and the Jellycat plush toys are the cuddliest.

4. Taking Care of You and Your Newborn: Get the scoop on everything you need to know about newborn care, from the first few days of life to finding childcare. Plus you’ll save 50% on it through December!

Gifts for Yourself(!)

Motherhood is full of sacrifices. Don’t make the holiday season one of them. Here are a few things to put yourself (or even a good friend) in a celebratory mood.

1. Knit Bedtime Long-Sleeve Pajamas by Madewell: Who says you can’t look good while lounging about on Saturday mornings?

2. Le Chain Necklace by Mejuri: Bold, bright, and beautiful…just like you!

3. My Favorite Things by Lather: Treat yourself to a fragrant, natural respite from daily life.

4. The Mama Reset Self-Care Retreat (at Home): Level up your motherhood game with strategies for setting goals, managing burnout, and mastering self-care. Even better: You can save 50 percent on it through December!

Mama, whatever you end up gifting, making, or doing this season, I hope that, above all, it adds a little sparkle to your celebrations. Happy Holidays!