5 things you simply must remember this Christmas
ANNA SPARGO-RYAN When you're planning your Christmas shenanigans this year please, for the love of the light in your child's eyes, take this list with you.
Perfect present ideas
The key to a successful Christmas is preparation and if you are looking for some inspiration in the gift department to help you get organised Essential Kids has put together a number of photo galleries full of ideas for every age and every budget.
Should you tell your kids the Santa-less truth?
LINDY ALEXANDER This Christmas, some parents are giving the guy in the red suit the flick.
Merry Santa Christmas card
Download and print this festive Christmas card for kids to enjoy cutting and writing a special message inside.
Planning a stress free Christmas
KRISTY KOMADINA Whether it's an informal drinks party with friends in December, or a proper lunch with the whole family on Christmas day, it pays to have a plan now to ensure smooth sailing on the day.
Inspiring books for girls
AMY GRAY With Christmas around the corner, there are a host of present types we all dread for our girls but there is one gift that gives more than the others.
Managing their expectations
JUSTINE DAVIES From the moment the stores hoist the mistletoe in September right up until bedtime on Christmas Eve, the question of: "What am I getting for Christmas?" fills the minds of kids around the country. Well, the minds of my kids, at any rate.
Christmas cheer could cost you dearly
David Sharaz Furby's, minature ride on cars, a frankenstien monster and a flying helicopter have made the list of what kids want for Christmas.
Anna Spargo-Ryan
Is this the 'iPad for kids'?
ANNA SPARGO-RYAN Apple's long-awaited announcement of the iPad Mini is here but is this year's Christmas 'must have' really a good choice for our Gen Zs?
Top books for the Christmas season
Staff Writers We all love a good book and Christmas time is the perfect time to dust off an old classic or break in a new one with the kids.
Nativity scene puzzle
Celebrate Christmas with the kids by printing this downloadable nativity scene puzzle.
Jolly Santa Christmas card
Download and print this Jolly Santa Christmas card for the kids to colour and decorate.
Are you the real deal or do you fake it?
Kylie Orr The Christmas tree is a tradition that holds a special place in every inner child's heart, writes Kylie Orr.
Top teacher treats for Christmas
With your present list already a mile long it can be hard to find the time to think of a thoughtful gift for your child’s teacher. But it doesn’t have to be - not with our extensive list of ideas. From the homemade to the extravagant, Essential Kids members have recommended some fantastically festive ideas and we have thrown in a few of our own.
Seasonal survival guide for allergy sufferers
Debbie Elkind Holiday food can be a minefield when your children are allergy sufferers. Here are some helpful hints and tips for getting through the festive season safely.
How to create a no-fuss Christmas light wonderland
Brooke Tasovac Decorating the house with lights is a great way for families to get into the Christmas spirit but there is a lot of time and effort needed for parents to initially set up Christmas light displays. Here is how you can make it a success and make the most of your time.
Colourful Christmas wreath creation
Jennifer Hadfields This versatile burlap wreath can be a colourful addition to your Christmas decor and can even be tweaked for New Year celebrations. Get the kids involved in this colourful Christmas project!
Festive rocky road
A Christmas gift from your own kitchen, beautifully wrapped and presented with good wishes from the heart, will make everyone sit up and take notice.
Christmas poem challenge
Can your kids guess the missing words from this famous Christmas poem? A challenge full of Christmas cheer!
Christmas gingerbread house counting challenge
Younger kids can use their counting skills and have fun at the same time with this Christmas Gingerbread House counting challenge.
Make your own Christmas puzzle
A Christmas Village puzzle that will keep the kids entertained while you get ready for Christmas day!
Santa Claus greeting card
Download this Santa Christmas greeting card and get the kids to draw an inspired picture or message on the front.
Santa dog dress-up
Meet Santa's trusty dog Snowy, he is getting ready to help Santa deliver his presents. This fun printable worksheet features a cut-out Santa dog complete with a Christmas wardrobe and accessories to play dress-up with.
Christmas story cut and paste
KATIE CARLIN Download and print this free Christmas story cut and paste.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Family production
Have some festive fun with this Christmas script - based on the book by Dr. Suess, How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Make your own Christmas greeting cards
Why not get the kids to make their own Christmas cards for the family this year? Simply print, colour and fold these cards for a thoughtful bonus the whole family will love.
International seasons greetings
Simply download and print this festive Christmas greeting challenge and give the kids a taste of another language.
Elves colouring page
Celebrate Christmas by printing off this cute colouring page featuring Santa's Elves.
Succulent BBQ Christmas Turkey
If you've got a coal burning or gas hooded barbecue, this is the recipe for your Christmas turkey.
Create a Christmas light wonderland
Several ways to tackle the daunting process of decking out the house in lights.
Christmas Forums
Discuss all your Christmas concerns and excitement with our members on the Forums.
Christmas Activities
Keep the kids busy these Christmas holidays with our fun printable worksheets.
