6 Holiday Decorations Kids Were Not Allowed to Touch

Ah, the holiday season! It’s that magical time of year when homes transform into twinkling wonderlands. But let’s be real for a second: as much as we love the festive spirit, there are some decorations that kids just can’t be trusted with. You know what I mean, right? Those beautiful, shiny, and often breakable items that seem to scream, “Touch me!” while you’re simultaneously yelling, “Don’t you dare!” Here’s a fun rundown of six holiday decorations that are on the “do not touch” list for little hands.

1. The Delicate Ornaments

Photo by Faris Mizdrak

First up, we have the fragile ornaments. Whether they’re glass, ceramic, or those vintage finds that have been passed down through generations, these beauties are the crown jewels of your tree. Sure, they look stunning hanging from the branches, but one little bump from a rambunctious toddler or an overzealous pet, and it’s game over. You might even find yourself having a mini heart attack as you rush to save them from a terrible fate. So, it’s probably best to keep those ornaments out of reach and maybe invest in some unbreakable ones for the lower branches!

2. The Tinsel Trap

Then there’s tinsel. Oh, tinsel! It’s the sparkly fluff that somehow manages to make everything look more festive. But if you’ve ever seen a child with a handful of tinsel, you know it’s like watching a glitter bomb go off. Not only does it end up everywhere—like in the dog’s fur or stuck to the bottom of your shoes—but it’s also a choking hazard. So, you might want to consider using paper garlands or fabric decorations instead. Your vacuum cleaner will thank you!

3. The Electric Christmas Lights

Let’s not forget about the lights! They’re a holiday staple, casting a warm glow that makes even the dreariest winter nights feel magical. But those strings of twinkling lights can be pretty enticing for curious little fingers. Between the temptation to pull on them and the potential for a shocking surprise, it’s wise to place them high enough on the tree or around the house to keep them out of reach. Plus, no one wants to have an impromptu lesson on electrical safety right before dinner!

4. The Precious Nativity Set

If you’re lucky enough to have a nativity set, you know it’s more than just a decoration; it’s a cherished part of your holiday tradition. Those little figurines are often delicate and can be difficult to replace if they break. So, while kids might think it’s fun to rearrange the wise men or give baby Jesus a new outfit, you might want to keep that nativity scene behind glass or on a high shelf. After all, you want to keep the peace in your holiday celebrations, not start a figurine fight!

5. The Scented Candles

Candles are another festive favorite, adding warmth and a cozy scent to your home. But, let’s be honest: they’re not exactly kid-friendly. Curious hands can easily knock them over or, worse, try to play with the flames. Instead of risking a trip to the ER, opt for flameless candles. They provide that lovely ambiance without the fire hazard. Plus, who wouldn’t love the flickering glow of a battery-operated candle? Just don’t let them think they can use them as toys, okay?

6. The Holiday Village

Finally, we have the holiday village. You know, those adorable little houses that create a winter wonderland scene on your mantel? They’re super cute, but they’re often made of ceramic or glass, so they can be a bit of a disaster waiting to happen. Kids might think they’re miniature playsets, ready for a little holiday reenactment, but unless you’re ready for a full-scale cleanup operation, it’s best to put them high where tiny hands can’t reach. Keep the magic of the village alive without the risk of a snowstorm of broken pieces!

So, there you have it! A rundown of holiday decorations that kids should probably admire from a distance. It’s not that we don’t want them to enjoy the season—it’s just that some things are best left untouched. As parents, we walk the fine line of fostering creativity and keeping our homes intact, and that’s no easy feat! So, next time you’re setting up your holiday decor, consider the little ones and keep those fragile beauties safe from prying hands.

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