By Christa Protano
Moms: We know your holiday survival mode is activated. Between shopping, wrapping, decorating, scheduling, hosting and working, the mental load is at an all-year high. That’s why we suggest tapping into your inner elf this season to make your holiday experience a little merrier.
But just so we’re clear, we are not talking about the mischievous kind of elf that usually ends up adding one more thing on the to-do list. We are getting inspired by the elf that exudes all the child-like wonder, optimism, kindness and positivity of this magical season (think Buddy the Elf, from the 2003 classic Christmas comedy). Here are four ways to feel like a kid again this Christmas.
Grab Those Colored Pencils
Coloring? Yes, please. Suitable for all skill levels, coloring is a low-key way to relieve stress and be creative at the same time. Make it festive with a holiday-themed coloring book like Colorful Christmas. This adult activity book features 124 holiday-themed coloring pages illustrated with beautiful line art ready to be brought to life with your favorite pencils, pens, or markers. What’s more — if you are feeling up to it — this kit also includes 16 illustrated cards and 32 gift tags that you can color and add to gifts for friends and family.
DIY a Festive Craft
If crafting was a favorite childhood pastime, Elf Crochet will put a smile on your face. This crochet kit has the supplies and instructions needed to create 12 memorable characters in amigurimi-style, including Buddy the Elf and Mr. Narwhal. Makers will find 10 colors of yarn, a crochet hook, safety eyes, embroidery floss, a tapestry needle, fiberfill stuffing, and a step-by-step booklet with full-color images for making Christmas ornaments, a gift bag, mug cozy, and colorful granny squares.
Give Yourself a Vibe Check
Did someone say stickers? If you’re old enough to remember the sticker books of the eighties, you’re most likely in need of a little holiday pick-me-up. Well guess what? In 2025, stickers have leveled up their game with options to get even more creative and color them in yourself before decorating that water bottle, iPad, or notebook. Perfect for the festive season, Christmas Vibes Coloring Stickers is a collection of more than 350 stickers illustrated with retro-style art the likes of peace signs, mushrooms, disco balls, and silly emojis alongside traditional Christmas imagery such as Santa Claus, ornaments, and gingerbread cookies.
Choose Your Own Advent Calendar
This year, opening a little treat every day in December is a childhood tradition adults can partake in thanks to the Seinfeld Festivus Pop-up Advent Calendar. Fans of the popular sitcom series can countdown to Festivus with with this Seinfeld-inspired book that includes a 10-inch pop-up of Frank Costanza and the Festivus pole, along with 23 compartments that each contain a special gift. Here you’ll find a Seinfeld trivia deck, an Airing of Grievances notepad, a Feats of Strength card game, and a variety of party decorations to enjoy throughout the holiday season.