Not every Christmas activity needs bright lights, loud music, and a packed schedule.
Use safe soft lighting
Battery candles or other safe ambient lighting can make the table feel special without changing the whole room.
Choose a dessert that invites conversation
A shared decorating activity gives people something to do while still leaving room to talk.
Keep phones away for the middle of the evening
Take photos at the beginning and end, then let the activity have a screen-free stretch.
Use the story to slow down
Reading the story in The Tomte Cake before the decorating begins can set a calmer pace for the rest of the night.