With Year of horse Chinese New Year approaching, it's a great opportunities to introduce our Little One the core concept of family, love and sharing through fun and engaging activities. Whether through open-ended play, DIY crafts, or cozy storytime, these simple yet meaningful ideas will help you create heartwarming memories with your little one!
1. Books about Chinese New Year
Cuddling up and reading with our Little Ones is one of the best ways to bond with our child~These picture books are a great to introduce everything about Chinese New Year to your child:
-
Why We Celebrate Chinese New Year : Everything to Know about Your Favorite Holiday by Chu, Eugenia / Mac-lean, Javiera
And if you prefer Chinese books:
- 十二生肖的故事 The Story of 12 Chinese Zodiac 作者：賴馬 (Our Top Pick for Chinese New Year!)
- 好忙的除夕 作者：翁藝珊
Spot a cozy corner, snuggle up and read together...Don't stress out how much your Little One understands, it's always the bonding time that matters!
2. Open-Ended Play Ideas That Explore Family, Sharing
Play is an enjoyable way for our Little One to learn about Chinese New Year traditions and rituals. You can set up simple pretend play with any toys you have at home and practice all the greeting phases for Chinese New Year in a natural and fun environment! 新年快樂！大吉大利！身體健康！龍馬精神！
3. DIY Chinese New Year Decorations
Ready to get your hands dirty? Here are some simple but engaging crafting ideas for CNY:
- Recycle the used red packet and turn them into little decorative lanterns or firecrackers
- Make our red prosperity Koi（鯉魚）with a used toilet paper roll
- Make your mandarin orange fun by adding funny faces (Like we did!!)
- Or if they are ready to write, prepare your own banners （春聯/揮春）
DIY crafting with your Little One is more than a wonderful way to bond, but having the craftwork displayed in the house also boost our Little One's emotional satisfaction and sense of belonging. Just remember, every DIY craft is perfect in their own way!
4. Atale's Free Chinese New Year Printables
If you are not sure where to start, check out our free downloadable 2026 Year of Horse Activity Pack! From adorable colouring pages to DIY red packet template, these activities are perfect for engaging little hands and minds while celebrating the tradition together!
Whether you’re reading, crafting or playing together, we hope these little activity ideas will make this Chinese New Year extra special for you and your Little One!
Doris XO