Many times, almost without thinking, we end up joining other people’s Christmas plans: large gatherings, crowded activities or events that, in theory, promise fun… but often turn into a few hours of survival mode, dealing with all sorts of obstacles, tired children, and us arriving home even more exhausted. To avoid this, we’re sharing five simple, realistic and enjoyable plans to fill free mornings or afternoons in the best possible way: as a family, and without losing your mind.
1. Cooking plan: Grandma’s recipe (or the great-great-grandfather’s invented one)
Take advantage of a quiet morning to prepare a traditional recipe together as a family. It’s important to approach the plan with enthusiasm and energy, because that excitement is contagious and turns the kitchen into a special place.
A foolproof trick: evoking a recipe from a family member or a distant ancestor, real or imagined, always adds a sense of magic and shared history. Just make sure the recipe actually exists… we don’t want everyone getting sick from “great-grandpa’s secret soup.”
Cooking together gives children autonomy, creates memories and, since they made it themselves, they usually eat better too. A perfect activity that ends with a good meal shared at the table.
2. At-home treasure hunt (perfect for rainy days)
For those cold or rainy days when going outside is tough, an at-home treasure hunt is a guaranteed success. All you need is to choose a fun theme, pirates, explorers, detectives, Christmas, and prepare a few clues or challenges hidden around the house.
Kids love solving riddles, finding objects and completing challenges to reach the “final treasure.” It’s a simple, exciting plan that can be adapted to any age and living space.
3. One-hour nature walk (special mention to Parque Adolfo Suárez)
Madrid has countless short, family-friendly walking routes. A highly recommended option is Parque Adolfo Suárez, on Avenida de Europa, perfect for a calm one-hour walk, observing leaves, vegetation, birds and small animals.
The park includes grassy areas to rest, a duck pond and wide paths ideal for children. A simple, budget-friendly plan that always feels good.
4. Mini botanical project: buying and caring for houseplants
Many children are fascinated by choosing a plant, watering it, pruning it and watching it grow with their care. It’s a lovely activity to do as a family and also encourages responsibility and consistency.
You can reorganize your current plants, look for a new addition or create a small “green corner” together.
5. An afternoon of Christmas creativity (screen-free)
A perfect plan for this time of year is setting up a creative afternoon with simple materials: card, paper rolls, yarn, ribbons, glue, old magazines or natural elements collected outdoors (pinecones, leaves, small branches).
You can set challenges such as:
Creating ornaments for the Christmas tree
Designing holiday cards for family members
Building small figures or winter houses
Making a joint mural to decorate the entrance of your home
The key is allowing freedom and joining in together. It’s relaxing, sparks imagination and leaves you with beautiful handmade memories created by the children themselves.