Toronto: The Savvy Guide to December

It’s the official month of ‘mandatory family fun time’ so it’s a good thing you have all your shopping done already (ahem). Either way, we have a few ideas that are sure to enhance the family experience this holiday season.

DO
Make an RESP contribution by December 31.
Why? Because it is the last thing you want to think about this time of year so it often gets missed. It’s a contribution to your child’s future, after all, and there is free money to be had from the government through the Canada Education Savings Grant.

PLAY
With chocolate (dark, milk, white, we’re not picky).
Why? Because everybody loves it and you can make some yummy recipes that double up as gifts.

GET
The Benchmark® Safe-Cut Package Opener ($9.95 at Home Hardware).
Why? Because it’s on the top of our holiday helper list—it opens the dreaded clamshell packages with safety and ease.

GO
Skating outside.
Why? It’s a fun family activity, all the rinks are open now, and the apres hot chocolate is sooo yummy. (For some romance, check out the Calvacade of Lights at City Hall on a Saturday night.)

GREEN IT
Look for alternative materials to wrap or package your gifts like reusable bags, fabric or paper recycled from children’s artwork.
Why? Because we have a planet to save.

HELP
Join the SavvyMoms Believe Campaign this holiday season.
Why? You can teach your own children how to care for others while helping buy a much-needed transport incubator for the Hospital for Sick Children. (And a special thanks to all the SavvyMoms who have already given generously—we have already raised enough to give the hospital a medication pump.)

So whatever you celebrate, be sure to embrace the season and spend as much time with your loved ones as you can.