CULLMAN – While most couples will be having a fun night out on the town and celebrating New Year’s with friends, some Cullmanites may choose to stay home with their little ones. Maybe you can’t find a babysitter, or perhaps you are over the out-all-night thing and are looking for quality family time. If you are planning on having a night in with the munchkins, then read on for some great ideas on how to make this a memorable occasion with your kiddos.
One way you can get some work done and start a new tradition is by making a memory tree. Enlist the kids in helping with putting the ornaments away, and then get out some note cards and pencils. Have your kids write a few of their favorite memories of the year and why. When everyone is done, you can read them aloud and place them on the tree to use in one last holiday.
For kids old enough to stay up until midnight, try having a slumber party style New Year’s Eve. Sleeping bags in the living room, lots of pillows, delicious treats and, of course, your favorite family films of the year. The kids are sure to enjoy a night at home with this twist.
No new year is complete without all the bells and whistles, so spend the earlier part of the day making some crafts. You can make funny hats, streamers and a 2015 banner for them to spend time coloring. If you don’t have the time to make crafts, then you can always make a quick family trip to the store and let them pick out their own hats and decorations.
Lastly, if you want to go the extra mile on the ball drop, then you and your kiddos can make your own. Simply get a Styrofoam ball, some sequins, glitter, etc and start gluing! Put a pipe cleaner stem into the center of the ball and decorate the ball. Then tie a long piece of ribbon to the stem and attach the ball to the ceiling; cut the ribbon at the stroke of 12 a.m.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, make sure you thank your family for another great year and tell them how much they mean to you. Every year with our families are precious, and we all need to be reminded that we are loved. Happy New Year to all!
