Merry Creatmass!

By Claudia Novo Castellví

The holidays are here.
Rhythms change, spaces transform, and a special energy invites us to gather, share and celebrate.

In this context, children’s participation —especially that of younger ones— is far more than a sweet gesture.
It’s a deep creative opportunity.

When a child creates within a web of relationships —painting, touching, decorating, mixing or cooking alongside others— they’re not just taking part in a celebration:
they’re learning how to become themselves in connection with others.

Shared creativity during the holidays helps children:

• build a sense of belonging

• develop language and expression

• expand sensory awareness

• strengthen self-esteem and autonomy

• give cultural meaning to lived experiences

That’s why this time of year is so powerful.

Below are three creative activities designed to experience Christmas through process, connection and exploration —not perfect results.

Activity 1 · Sensory crafts

(Process over outcome)

Offer open-ended experiences where children can freely explore materials:

• Finger painting on large paper

• Printing with sponges, potatoes or cardboard rolls

• Simple gluing with large textured papers

The goal isn’t for it to “look nice”.
The goal is to explore, try, get messy, repeat and choose.

When children aren’t being evaluated, creativity flows naturally.
And that confidence stays with them far beyond the holidays.

Activity 2 · Participatory decoration

Transforming the environment is also a shared creative act:

• Hanging unbreakable ornaments on a low tree

• Making fabric or felt garlands to touch

• Creating a “sensory tree” with different textures

• Decorating cards to send to friends and family

Participation builds ownership.
And feeling part of something meaningful is one of the roots of creativity.

Activity 3 · Holiday sensory experiences

The holidays are full of stimuli that can be explored mindfully:

• Smelling gentle spices like cinnamon or orange

• Exploring natural materials: pinecones, dry leaves, soft fabrics, snow

• Baking cookies together: kneading, shaping, decorating

These moments connect body, emotion and memory.
That’s where creativity becomes embodied experience.

Essential for the Creative Family

Creating together isn’t just an activity —it’s a way of relating.
When children grow up surrounded by shared creative experiences, they learn that they can transform their environment and connect with others through imagination, care and presence.