Make Christmas Special for Children in Care

The festive season should be a time for joy, love, and togetherness for all children. However, for vulnerable children and for those who spend time in care or with support workers away from their families, Christmas can be a difficult time.

It’s really important to ensure that all young people have a positive and memorable experience at Christmas, regardless of environment or budget.

Here are some of our tips and ideas to make Christmas special for children in care:

Decorating the tree at Christmas

Create a sense of belonging:

• • Decorating together: Involve the children in decorating the care home, foster home or their support setting. Let them choose ornaments, hang lights, and create festive crafts. This gives them a sense of ownership and makes them feel like they are contributing to the holiday spirit.
  • Family-style meals: Organise festive meals with all the trimmings. Serve food family-style to encourage conversation and a sense of togetherness. This helps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where children feel like they are part of a family.
  • Gift giving: If there is gift-giving happening, make it a special occasion. Wrap presents together and create a festive atmosphere. This can help to build anticipation and excitement, and make the children feel loved and valued.

Personalised celebrations:

• Individualised plans: Consider each child’s preferences and cultural background. Tailor the celebrations to their specific needs and interests. This shows that you care about their individual needs and preferences, and that you want to make their Christmas special. It will also make them feel more valued and special.
• Special traditions: If possible, incorporate some of the child’s family traditions into the Christmas celebrations. This can help them feel connected to their roots and maintain a sense of identity.
• One-on-one time: If there is more than one child, spend quality time with each child, reading stories, playing games, or simply chatting. This one-on-one time allows you to connect with the child on a personal level and show them that you care.

Festive activities and experiences

• Christmas parties: Organise fun-filled Christmas parties with games, music, and festive food. This is a great way to create a festive atmosphere and give children a chance to have fun and socialise with others if possible.
• Community outreach: Arrange visits to local Christmas markets, light displays, or other festive events. This can help to broaden the children’s horizons and expose them to new experiences.
• Volunteer involvement: Invite volunteers to spend time with the children, read stories, or participate in activities. Volunteers can provide additional support and attention, and help to create a more festive atmosphere.

Emotional Support

• Open Communication: Encourage open communication about feelings and emotions. Create a safe space for children to express themselves. This helps to build trust and rapport, and allows the children to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
• Counseling services: Offer counseling services to help children cope with any emotional challenges that may arise around the festive period. This can be especially helpful for children who are struggling with loss, grief, or other emotional issues.
• Positive reinforcement: Acknowledge and appreciate the children’s efforts and positive behavior. This helps to boost their self-esteem and encourage them to continue making positive choices.

Additional considerations to remember

• Consistency: Maintain a consistent routine, especially during the holiday season. This can help to provide a sense of stability and security for the children.
• Cultural sensitivity: Be mindful of cultural differences and traditions. This shows respect for the children’s cultural backgrounds and helps to create a more inclusive environment for everyone.
• Child protection: Prioritise child protection and safety at all times. This is essential to ensure the well-being of the children and to create a safe and supportive environment.

By implementing these tips and ideas, you can make Christmas a joyful and memorable experience for all children. Let’s work together to spread love, kindness, and holiday cheer to those who need it most.