It’s December! Around here, we love the start of December because it really feels like winter’s kick-off even though we have a few weeks to go. Here in Colorado, the snow got an early start, granting us the first white Thanksgiving we can remember! And that means there has been enough snow for some legitimate skiing…those were some amazing early season turns! Thank you Mother Nature!

December also means the countdown to the holidays, for many, Christmas! Thanksgiving was later in the month, but for some, it hasn’t stopped them from running full steam on the decorating. I’m stuck somewhere in the middle…I have greens on our front porch and the lantern is still full of gourds. And, I’m three days late on getting the Christmas calendar out for the kids. Boy have they let me hear it, too! Sigh. As much as I love decorating the house with the sparkles and the greens, this mama needs a hot minute between set changes!

A huge part of our mission at Snow Happy is focused on kindness and helping others. And there is no better time of year this live this out! Families have really different traditions when it comes to their holiday celebrations, in particular how they mark the days until Christmas. Advent calendars, countdown calendars, candy, no candy and on it goes. We have a Christmas countdown calendar, and this year, we wanted to do something a little different, focusing on giving and serving others. We have never done the small gift or candy thing in our house…our kids just love the thrill of fighting over who get to move the star to the next day. For real. Can’t make this stuff up.

So, for 25 days (you bet I’m going retroactive on this one), the kids will either each pick one item of theirs to give to a child in need or to do something kind for someone. Everyone here is pretty excited about it as they are becoming more and more interested in serving others. I think it’s also a great exercise in community – seeing the world outside of themselves and gaining the confidence to go ask a neighbor if they need help with anything. My daughter started yesterday by returning her brother’s library books for him since he was home sick. A small gesture, but kind nonetheless. She felt really proud and her big bro felt cared for. These little things everyday add up to something significant.

There is nothing special required to execute this holiday tradition if you’re looking for something different this year. You can write it out on a calendar or just add little note cards for each day on existing holiday calendar. Writing it down sets the intention and can be a helpful reminder, too. I am sure there a million and one adorable ideas on Pinterest for you!

In the swirl of talking about Christmas wish lists and what they’re getting, I hope this helps to bring into focus the true magic of kindness, compassion and giving to others.

I would love to hear about your family traditions. Do you have a special organization near and dear to your heart? How do you involve your kids? What other ways can young kids get involved in service projects? How do you carry these values beyond this season? Comment below or post on our Facebook page (@snowhappyco). Keep on finding the joy of winter, friends, and share it with others!