Whether you're looking for a way to help your child unleash her inner creativity or just hoping to keep the kids out from underfoot while you are wrapping presents, Christmas coloring games can be a busy mom's best friend. If you're totally sapped, a dollar store coloring book is a fine substitute, but if you have a little more energy, make your child's coloring project into a game.

Food is an integral part of Christmas celebrations for many families. In the days leading up to Christmas, chances are, you will be cooking up a storm. Getting your child involved with the cooking can provide him with an opportunity to play a hands-on role in preparing for the holiday celebrations.

On Christmas Eve, if your children are off the wall with anticipation knowing that Santa is on his way, help them focus their energy by making a Christmas Eve craft. Doing a craft will provide your children with a creative outlet that will help ease their excitement, as well as provide you with an opportunity to create last-minute Christmas decorations or gifts.

While store-bought Christmas decorations are nice, decorations your child makes by hand are priceless. With a few simple supplies, your child can create Christmas decorations that can be proudly displayed throughout your home. When choosing which holiday decorations to make with your child, remember his age and skill level will determine how much assistance he needs from you to complete the craft.

Holidays, such as Christmas, are supposed to be about spending time with family and creating memories. Combine common holiday tasks, such as decorating the tree, with making memories. Decorating your Christmas tree with your children can become a family tradition you can eventually pass on to your grandchildren. Allow your children to choose the type of decor or theme for the tree decorations.

Christmas decorations add to the festive atmosphere, and yard decorations spread the holiday spirits outside. You don't have to go overboard and into debt if you want to decorate your yard to highlight the Christmas season. You can create your own yard decorations. Preparing for the arrival of Santa Claus can be fun when the entire family contributes to making DIY outdoor Christmas decorations.

The excitement of Christmas calls for some hands-on creative ideas to keep kids busy. And a home takes on an especially festive air when it's filled with holiday decorations and artwork made by children. Kids can take the basic directions for these Christmas art projects and add their own personal touches.

The parties and family functions offer unbelievably delicious foods that make your mouth water just thinking about them! But, just because the holidays are here doesn't mean you should throw out all of your hard work throughout the year. This year, with a little self-control and knowledge about the right choices, you can avoid the holiday bulge! Here are some of the best and worst holiday foods.