4 Steps to Wrap Christmas Gifts Like a Pro P. 22 Palm
Letter From The Publisher
Greetings! It’s hard to believe we’re already wrapping up 2025! As Winter Break approaches and the holiday spirit fills the air, we’re excited to bring you an issue filled with festive fun, helpful resources, and everything families need to make the season bright here in Palm Beach County.
Our Winter Break Camp Guide (page 16) features a fantastic selection of camps to keep kids active, creative, and engaged during their time off. Looking for ways to celebrate the season as a family? Don’t miss our Holiday Happenings roundup (page 18 ) your go-to guide for magical local favorites such as the Holiday Lights at the Cox Science Center, the glowing displays at Mounts Botanical Garden, classic Nutcracker performances, and festive art workshops the whole family can enjoy.
As you prepare your home for holiday gatherings, you’ll love this month’s expert feature from Professional Organizer Amy Bergman (page 8): Hosting for the Holidays: Simple Systems to Make Welcoming Guests Easier. Amy shares smart, stressreducing strategies to help you stay organized and enjoy more time with the people you love.
You’ll also find our Holiday Gift Guide (page 12), highlighting unique gifts from local businesses perfect for checking off your list while supporting our vibrant community.
From all of us at PB Parenting—Jennifer, Stephanie, Lynn, and myself—we wish you a joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year. Here’s to a season filled with warmth, celebration, and unforgettable memories!
Happy Holidays and Happy Parenting!
At Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, every child is at the heart of all we do. Our team is devoted to delivering world-class care with compassion, expertise, and hope because your child’s well-being means everything to us. That unwavering commitment has earned us recognition as the #1 children’s hospital* in South Florida by U.S. News & World Report for 2025–26, with seven nationally ranked specialties, more than any other children’s hospital in the region. Here, your child truly matters most.
nicklauschildrens.org
PB Picks
Luna StoryTime Projector
Holiday GIfts
Ages 3+ | Starter Set: MSRP: $59.99 | Additional Content Characters: MSRP $14.99 each | Available now at LunaStoryTime.com, Amazon and Barnes & Noble; Fall 2025 at Target.com, Walmart.com, and Kohl’s Inspire a love of reading with Luna, a magical storyteller that turns storytime into an immersive, screen-free adventure. With vivid projections, expressive narration, and sing-along songs, Luna sparks imagination and supports early literacy—no Wi-Fi, apps, or downloads required. Perfect for playtime, travel, bedtime, or quiet independent moments, this portable 3-in-1 device functions as a story projector, an audio and music player, and a soothing night light. Developed by children’s publishing experts for ages 3–7, Each interchangeable Content Character provides 30–70 minutes of stories and songs, featuring originals as well as beloved preschool favorites like Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, PAW Patrol, and Sesame Street.
Disney Oh So Snuggly Chip & Dale (GUND)
Ages: 1+ | MSRP: $33.99 each | Available at Amazon. Whether solving crimes in their adventures as detectives or stirring up mischief, Chip and Dale are ready for fun! Bring Disney’s clever & playful chipmunks to life with 12.5” plush that combine super soft plush with quilted accents. Their understuffed, melt-in-your-arms design & cartoonaccurate details make them huggable companions & timeless décor. Choose from Chip and Dale. Machine washable.
Hello Kitty 20th Anniversary Kuromi (GUND)
Ages: 1+ | MSRP: $29.99 | Available at Amazon. Celebrate Kuromi’s 20th anniversary with this commemorative 9.5” plush of the mischievous tomboy with a girly heart! From her classic jester’s outfit to her pink skull clip, felt crown & mischievous twinkle in her eye, this cute & edgy friend is sure to wow Hello Kitty & pop culture fans! Surface washable.
Blast & Roar Toothless Mask
Ages: 4+ | MSRP: $29.99 | Available at Amazon, Target and Walmart. Unleash your inner Toothless with this dragon costume mask featuring lights, sounds and mist! Choose from two play modes: Mode 1 activates plasma blast lights and roaring sounds; Mode 2 launches a plasma blast mists when you roar. When mist runs out, simply refill the internal reservoir with water. Includes 3 AAA batteries.
Ultimate Plasma Blast Toothless (Spin Master)
MSRP: $29.99 | Ages: 4+ | Available at Amazon, Target and Walmart
Get ready for battle with this authentic Toothless figure, featuring articulated limbs and an impressive 25” wingspan! His wings flap when moving him up and down, and at the push of a button, he roars and emits glowing plasma. Switch from standing to dive-bombing poses to hear different sounds. Includes 2 AAA batteries.
BY AMY BERGMAN
Holiday hosting in Palm Beach County usually means a full house. Kids are home from school. Relatives escape winter to enjoy some sunshine. Friends stop by between events. A busy home can feel warm and joyful, but it can also overwhelm even the most organized person. You don’t need perfection. You just need systems that lower the stress and make your home work for you during the busiest month of the year.
Set up a guest space that feels intentional
A welcoming guest area can be created in any home, whether you have a dedicated room or not. Start by clearing one flat surface like a nightstand, a piece of a dresser, or even a basket placed on a chair. This becomes the guest’s landing zone. Add a small tray with tissues, a basic charger, and the WiFi password. A few empty hangers or a hook on the back of the door goes a long way.
If your guests are sleeping in a multi-use space like a playroom, set up a small “privacy kit.” This might
be a folding screen, a curtain hung on a tension rod, or even a lightweight blanket clipped between two bookshelves. The system isn’t about aesthetics; it’s about giving guests control over their own corner.
One more helpful touch: place a laundry bag or pillowcase in their area for dirty clothes. It prevents laundry from blending into the household chaos.
Create a simple system for handling everyday clutter
Instead of hiding clutter in closets or bathtubs, create a temporary “clutter collection system.” Choose one spot in a low-traffic area such as a dining room corner or laundry room. Use two or three large baskets and label them by category: toys, papers, and miscellaneous household items. This keeps everything sorted enough that you won’t lose important things, but contained enough that you’re not tidying all day.
For families with young kids, add a “kid return
This holiday season, consider giving your girl the priceless gift of time spent together and shared experiences. Girl Scouts is a wonderful way to deliver just that, providing time with trusted adults and mentors in a safe comfortable space. She’ll make a new group of friends that support her no matter what, along with hands-on learning adventures that help her get ready for her future. Through Girl Scouts, she’ll develop confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging, all while having a ton of fun. It’s the ultimate gift that truly keeps on giving during the holidays and beyond.
For more information, visit gssef.org or contact us at 561-427-0177 or customercare@gssef.org
Scan the QR to learn more!
Ask children to toss in anything that’s out of place. A quick nightly five-minute reset prevents
“new items that need a home.” Instead of scattering through the house, everything stays in one place until you can help your kids put things away properly.
Capture more than photos
Parents tend to take plenty of pictures, but voices and sounds can be just as precious later. Record your guests telling a favorite memory. Capture kids laughing while they open gifts. Ask grandparents to share a quick story. These clips become priceless, and they take almost no effort. Even better: assign a teenager to be in charge of this, reliving you of the task and engaging them with others.
When the house is full and the schedule is packed, the small systems you put in place now will carry you through the season with far less stress. You’re not aiming for perfection. You’re creating a home where guests feel cared for, your family can still function, and you have the space to enjoy the moments that matter. A few thoughtful adjustments make the holidays feel less like a
juggling act and more like the kind of time you’ll want to remember.
XOXO, Amy
Transform your home and office into a haven of serenity and productivity with Amyzing Spaces. As a seasoned professional organizer in Palm Beach County, Amy Bergman is dedicated to helping individuals and businesses unlock the full potential of their spaces. With a passion for simplifying and creating practical systems, Amy develops personalized solutions that fit each client's unique needs, freeing up time and energy for what truly matters. In addition to one-on-one organizing services, Amy offers dynamic speaking engagements and interactive workshops on decluttering, organizing, time management, and productivity. She works with both small and large groups, including corporate teams, to provide actionable strategies that lead to lasting results. Explore her website http://www.amyzingspaces. com to see how she brings order, clarity, and calm to every space she works with.
'Tis the season to spread joy and support local businesses! In our holiday gift guide, we've curated a selection of great ideas to help you support local businesses while checking off your shopping list.
artNEST
We give children limitless possibilities to express themselves and learn all aspects of art, we keep the learning fun…Give the Gift of Art! You can purchase a gift certificate to anything we offer such as classes, workshops, camps, parties etc. Located in Delray. Boca Raton, and Coral Springs! For more information visit www.artneststudios.com or call 561-562-8897.
Ballet Palm Beach
Take your family to see the Nutcracker this Holiday Season. Performances will be Dec. 5th-7th at the Kravis Center for Performing Arts. Also for your little budding ballerina, give the gift of ballet classes! For more information go to www.balletpalmbeach.com.
Cox Science Center and Aquarium
There are many great gifts available at the Cox Science Center! Give your loved ones
passes to visit, an annual membership, or stop in our Science Center store to purchase a wide variety of science goodies. Bring the gift of exploration home with interactive science kits or a plethora of small treasures. Members save 10% on purchases. Store items may be ordered by telephone at 561-832-1988. Memberships may be purchased on their website www.CoxScienceCenter.org.
Genie's Gymnastics
At Genie’s Gymnastics the children come first. We focus on their specific goals, and have a lot of fun while working towards excellence. Girls and boys gymnastics and cheerleading classes available. Centrally located between Jog Rd and Hagen Ranch behind the chevron gas station. Call 561-8680288 or visit www.geniesgymnastics.com for more details. PB Parenting
Don’t forget to tell them you saw their listing in Holiday Gift Guide
Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida
This holiday season, consider giving your girl the priceless gift of time spent together and shared experiences. Girl Scouts is a wonderful way to deliver just that, providing time with trusted adults and mentors in a safe comfortable space. She’ll make a new group of friends that support her no matter what, along with hands-on learning adventures that help her get ready for her future. Through Girl Scouts, she’ll develop confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging, all while having a ton of fun. It’s the ultimate gift that truly keeps on giving during the holidays and beyond. For more information, visit gssef.org or contact us at 561-427-0177 or customercare@gssef.org.
The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts - Tickets are a gift that one size fits all! The Kravis has so many great shows for all ages this seaon including popular Broadway Musicals such as Some Like it Hot, Beetlejuice and Holiday performances like Twas the Night Before by Cirque Du Soliel, Nutcracker and more! Check out their whole lineup and purchase tickets at www.kravis.org/
Chess
at Leader Learning Center - Give the Gift of Strategy! At the Leader Learning Center, chess is more than just a game—it’s a pathway to developing focus, confidence, and critical thinking skills. Their comprehensive chess program welcomes children of all ages Tues - Fri: 12pm-4pm Sat: 10am-4pm Sun: 12pm-4pm
and skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced players preparing for tournaments. This holiday season, families can give the gift of learning, strategy, and fun with chess at the Leader Learning Center. Learn more: leaderlearning.us/chess.
Loggerhead
Marinelife Center Go green this holiday season by gifting a sea turtle “adoption” to your own special hatchling! A sea turtle adoption is a unique and meaningful way to show how much you care (for the person and for marine life). No matter what sea turtle adoption package you purchase, you will have a way to show your love for ocean and sea turtle conservation. It could be in sticker, hat, photo, or magnet form. You can adopt a sea turtle for as low as $40. You can find more info at www. marinelife.org/adopt.
Maltz Jupiter Theatre and Goldner Conservatory
at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre are great gift giving experiences! For the theatre lover - the gift of tickets to see a show Upcoming Shows include Million Dollar Quartet, Come From Away, Dueling Yule-ing Pianos, Classic Christmas by Candlelight, Jazzy Christmas Concert and more! For your budding actor or actress, the gift of classes. The Goldner Conservatory at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre is a premier professional Conservatory that offers the highest caliber of artistic education to students of all ages. To learn more go to /www.jupitertheatre.org.
ILUMINA: A Tropical Garden Lantern Festival at Mounts Botanical Garden
Give the gift of wonder this holiday season with ILUMINA at Mounts Botanical Garden. From November 12, 2025, to January 11, 2026, the Garden transforms into a glowing wonderland of more than 500 handcrafted silk lanterns—flamingos, butterflies, orchids, and more—illuminating the night with art, color, and imagination. Perfect for families, couples, and friends, this walkable outdoor experience blends culture, creativity, and nature in the heart of West Palm Beach. Tickets start at $16 for adults and $2 for children. Garden Members enjoy the best prices and special perks. Tickets and memberships available at mounts.org.
Picasso’s Creative Workshop
Create personalized gifts at Picasso's Creative Workshop. Have fun painting and creating your own masterpiece to give to your love ones. Or give the gift of creativity, gift certificates available and make great gifts! Located at 7451 S Military Trail, Lake Worth. Call us today to learn more! For more information call 561-439-4000 or visit www.gopicasso.com.
Sandoway Discovery Center
Become a member or adopt an animal for the holiday season! Membership has its perks! Enjoy free admission year round, special events and more! Sandoway also offers two animal adoption packages for $25 or $50. Animals include Maggie the Gopher Tortoise, Nurse Sharks, Opossums, Sting Rays and more For more information call 561-274-7263 or visit www.Sandoway.org.
75+ Stocking Stuffers
Toddler Stuffers
1. Bath toys
2. Silicone stacking cups
3. Silicone stacking cups
4. Character socks
5. Rubber duck holiday editions
6. Rubber duck holiday editions
7. Board books
8. Dish set with their favorite character
9. Pull-back animal cars
10. Pull-back animal cars
Kid Stuffers
11. Silicone stacking cups
12. Scratch-art cards
13. Noise makers (for New Year’s Eve!)
14. Glow sticks (also great for New Year's Eve)
15. Kinetic Sand single packs
16. Mini mystery blind bags (Squishmallows, LEGO, etc.)
17. Lip gloss/lipstick
18. Fun shoelace charms (Crocs-style or regular shoes)
19. Fruit snacks
20. Matchbox cars
21. Mini flashlight projector (shines animal or space shapes)
22. Lego mini figures
23. Bookmarks with their name
24. Secret message pens
25. Dress up jewelry
26. Travel games
27. Small stuffed animal
28. Secret message pens
29. Coloring book
30. Silly putty
31. Washable Markers
32. Watercolor paints
33. Yo-yo
34. Plant growing kit
35. Night Light
36. Kaleidoscope
37. Hair bows
38. Hair brush
39. Rainbow scratch-off ornaments
40. Toothbrush
Teen Stuffers
41. Magnetic phone ring/stand combo
42. Music gift card
43. “Sticker-by-number” art kits
44. Cell phone cover
45. Portable LED selfie light clip-on
46. Mini skincare minis (K-beauty, pimple patches, lip oils)
47. Mini Journals
48. Perfume or cologne rollers
49. Nail polish in fun colors
50. Lanyard for keys/school ID
51. LED string lights
52. Aesthetic enamel pins
53. Chocolate or their favorite candy
54. Reusable water bottle stickers
55. Music Apps like spotify
Mom Stuffers
56. Lip mask or overnight lip treatment
57. Scented hand lotion
58. Mini hydrating face mist
59. Car diffuser with essential oil pods
60. Satin scrunchie set
61. “Mom’s Night Off” coupon card
62. Specialty tea
63. Scented candles
64. Portable Cell phone charger
65. Chocolates
66. Pocket planner for 2026
Dad Stuffers
67. Car vent clip phone mount
68. Keychain airtag holder
69. Mini multi-tool
70. Mini flashlight
71. “Dad Joke of the Day” mini desk calendar
72. Slim travel wallet
73. Tape measurer
74. Drink Koozies
75. Car charger for cell phone
76. Beef jerky
77. Car wash gift card
78. Golf tees and balls
79. Cord organizer
80. Tire pressure gauge
Everyone Stuffers
81. Hot Cocoa/Cider/Chai Tea Packets
82. Puzzle books (crossword, sudoku, word search)
83. Personalized Christmas ornament
84. Slipper Socks
85. Lip balm (holiday flavors!)
artNEST Studios
artNEST Boca, Delray and Coral Springs have Winter Break Camp! Join the fun exploring different mediums, learning about artists, practicing a variety of artistic styles and can let loose in our studio. Camps offer a balance of art projects, games, dance parties and more to keep your kids engaged and active. No experience necessary, just an open mind and a desire to have lots of FUN! Ages 3.5 – 8. 9am-3pm. Lunch and snacks included. Located in Delray Beach, Boca Raton and NOW in Coral Springs. For more information visit artNESTstudios. com or call 561-562-8897.
Cox Science Center and Aquarium
Experience the wonders of winter through interactive science and tech camps! For young scientists ages 5-13, each exciting camp offers hands-on exploration of a variety of STEM topics. The days are packed with engaging lessons, exciting labs, crafts and outdoor activities led by our expert Science Educators. Camps are December 22-26 (No camp on Christmas Day) and December 29 – January 2. Located in West Palm Beach. For more information visit www.coxsciencecenter.org/ camps or call 561-832-2026.
Breakers
West Country Club Winter Kids’ Camp
At Breakers West, the magic of the holidays collides with the magic of camp. Children ages 4 to 12 are sure to enjoy days filled with friendship, adventures, learning and fun. Our certified camp counselors inspire campers' imaginations and keep them active – both indoors and out - as they enjoy Daily Golf, Tennis, Swimming, Arts & Crafts and More. December 22, 23 & 26 and December 29, 30, 31 & January 2; 8:45am – 3:00pm. Before- and after-care also available; fees apply. To register, please visit breakerswestclub.com/activities, call 561-653-6330 or email bw.camp@thebreakers.com.
Genie’s Gymnastics Camp
Genie’s Gymnastics Camp is very flexible, you can do it daily, weekly or any combination from 9am-4 pm. Whatever works best for you. From the first to the last day of the school break. Early drop off and late pick up available. 5-15 years. 5 Days $245, 4 Days $205, 3 Days $160, 2 Days $115, 1 Day $70. Camp includes gymnastics as well as activities such as arts and crafts, painting, Spanish classes, board games etc. For more info call 561.868.0288 or www.geniesgymnastics.com.
Lake Worth Playhouse
We’re putting on a show in 4 days! Campers will sing winter songs, dance, play theatre games, do holiday arts and crafts, and put on a showcase on Friday for friends and family. Camp will run December 29, 2025 – Jan 2, 2026 (No Camp Jan 1) from 9 AM - 4 PM and is geared for kids aged 7 - 15. Tuition is $350 per camper and can be purchased online at https://lakeworthplayhouse.org/camps/ or by calling our Box Office at 561-586-6410.
Palm Beach Skate Zone
Join us for our Holiday Ice Skating Camps on December 22, 23, 29 & 30! Designed for ages 5 and up, this funfilled camp is perfect for beginners—no skating experience required. For only $95 per day, campers enjoy a full day of skating, games, and guided instruction, plus snack and lunch included. Camp runs 8:30 AM–3:30 PM, with optional aftercare until 5:30 PM for $20. It’s the perfect way to spend winter break—staying active, making friends, building confidence, and enjoying a unique holiday experience on the ice. Come skate into the season with us!
Winter in a Sunny Wonderland! As the first snowflakes blanket the North, we’re basking in sunshine here in South Florida! December is the perfect time to embrace the unique joys of our sunny winter season. Whether you’re looking to explore holiday festivities or keep the kids entertained during winter break, there’s no shortage of fun to be had right in our backyard.
From festive lights and holiday events, South Florida truly transforms into a magical wonderland. So, let’s make the most of this special season and discover why we’re so lucky to call this sunny paradise our home!
Cox Science Center and Aquarium has a full schedule of holiday events and activities planned so you can be merry and bright all season long!
Winter Lights and Bites is back and brighter than ever! The Cox Science Center and Aquarium is bringing back a family holiday event that will light up your season! Get ready to sing, dance, and shine during our new sing-along holiday light show, where holiday
favorites come to life in dazzling color. Stroll through our glowing outdoor exhibits, enjoy hands-on science fun, and cozy up with s'mores under the stars. Plus, feast on bites from local food trucks and be wowed by our shows on our science trail and outdoor amphitheater. December 19th will be filled with festive fun, including musical entertainment featuring Elsa and the Palm Beach Symphony, holiday photo opportunities with Santa, and a variety of winter-themed crafts and hands-on activities. Guests can enjoy free face painting, create treats at the DIY S’mores Station, and take in the dazzling holiday lights throughout the Science Trail. Learn more and buy tickets herewww.coxsciencecenter.org/winter-wonderland.
Noon Year's Eve at Cox Science Center - Ring in the new year on our Fisher Family Science Trail when the clock strikes NOON. On Tuesday, December 31st from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., guests can enjoy a lively celebration featuring Live Science Shows, music and dancing, DIY confetti poppers, a dry ice apple cider toast at noon,
exploration of the Top Secret exhibit, and a festive countdown to the Noon-Year. All activities are included with regular Science Center admission and are free for members. Admission is $26 for adults, $24 for teens, $22 for children ages 3–12, $24 for seniors, and free for children under 3. Learn more and purchase tickets here - www.coxsciencecenter.org/noonyears-eve.
Ballet Palm Beach Presents The Nutcracker from December 5–7, with performances on Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. The cherished holiday favorite returns to the stage with Ballet Palm Beach’s breathtaking production, inviting audiences to join Marie on her whimsical journey as she is whisked away by the Nutcracker Prince into a dazzling winter wonderland. Guests will marvel at captivating dancing snowflakes, thrilling battles of toy soldiers, and festive surprises that fill the air with magic. Performances will take place at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos Concert Hall. For ticket prices and purchasing information, please call Ballet Palm Beach at 561-630-8235 or visit www. balletpalmbeach.org.
Mounts Botanical Garden invites the community to experience ILUMINA:
A Tropical Garden Lantern Festival, a breathtaking nighttime event that transforms the Garden into a vibrant world of light, color, and imagination. Inspired by centuries-old lantern artistry, the exhibition features more than 500 handcrafted silk lanterns—flamingos, chameleons, butterflies, orchids, and other tropical creations—that illuminate the pathways and blend art, tradition, and South Florida’s natural beauty into a magical holiday-season experience. This family-friendly, walkable event also offers festive food, cultural performances, and artisan crafts along the glowing trails, making it an ideal evening outing for families, couples, and friends. Tickets start at $16 for adults and $2 for children, with special pricing available for Garden Members. For details and ticket purchases, visit mounts.org/ilumina. Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest public garden, dedicated to inspiring and educating visitors about plants, sustainability, and the vital connection between people and nature.
artNEST is offering a festive lineup of holiday pop-up classes throughout December, perfect
for families looking to add creativity to their seasonal fun. Across its Delray Beach, Boca Raton, and Coral Springs studios, children can enjoy a wide mix of winter-themed art experiences— including messy play sessions, sensory activities, ornament and gift making, gingerbread crafts, and even a special Make Your Own LABUBU workshop. Each location features its own blend of seasonal projects designed to spark imagination and provide hands-on holiday joy for all ages. Learn more and sign up for classes at www. artneststudios.com.
Palm Beach Skate Zone is celebrating the season with a fun lineup of themed skating events for all ages. The festivities begin on December 14 with the Hanukkah Festival of Lights Skate, followed by the high-energy Jingle
Bash on December 19. Families can enjoy a cozy Christmas Movie Marathon Skate on December 21, and little ones can decorate treats during Cookie Decorating Day on December 23. Christmas Eve brings the whimsical Grinchmas Ice Skating Party, complete with falling snow, while December 25 features a magical Holiday Skate with Santa and snowy surprises. On December 26, skaters can join the fun for National Candy Cane Day, hunting for hidden treats. The month wraps up on December 31 with a special New Year’s Eve Skate from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., featuring an on-ice countdown. Learn more at pbskatezone.com.
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4 Steps to Wrap Christmas Presents Like a Pro
Opening presents on Christmas morning is the highlight of the holidays for many, but getting the gifts ready to put under the tree can be a real chore.
Get those perfect presents ready for the big day with this simple step-by-step wrapping guide:
1. Gather Your Materials
Having everything prepared beforehand can make the wrapping process smoother and more enjoyable. Before you start wrapping, gather wrapping paper, scissors, tape, bows, ribbons and gift tags. If you want to go beyond traditional methods, use fabric instead of paper for a reusable and eco-friendly option. Also be sure to clear a nice, flat surface to work on whether that’s the kitchen table or the living
room floor.
2. Measure and Cut Gift Wrap
To ensure your gifts look professionally packaged, measure and cut the appropriate amount of wrapping paper for each gift. Place the gift box (or item itself) in the center of the wrapping paper and pull the paper up around the sides to see how much you need. Once you’ve measured, use scissors to cut neatly for a clean, polished look.
3. Fold Crisp Edges and Smooth Surfaces
Start by folding one side of the wrapping paper over the gift and secure it with tape. Then repeat with the opposite side, ensuring the paper is smooth across the surface of the package. For the edges, fold in the sides and create a triangle at each corner. Fold the
triangle up against the side of the gift and secure it with tape. Repeat this process on the other side.
4. Add Bows, Ribbons and Tags
Once your gifts are wrapped, add the finishing touches. Bows, ribbons and tags can add a personal touch and elevate the presentation of gifts. Choose ribbon that complements the wrapping paper and tie it around the gift in a neat bow, or simply attach a premade bow to accent the package. You can also decorate the wrapping paper with stamps, drawings or stickers for a personalized touch. Finally, attach gift tags to ensure each present gets to the proper recipient.
Find more tips and tricks to simplify the holidays at eLivingtoday.com.
Family Features. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
The 13th Annual Wellington Holiday Run 5K (Certified by USA Track and Field) will be held on Sun. Dec 21st at 7:00 AM • Village Park, Wellington around the inside of the Village Park campus, located at 11700 Pierson Rd Wellington Starting time will be at 7:00 am.
Divisions: Male/ Female Age, Santa & Mrs.Claus and Elves, and Male/Female Stroller.
Register here https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/ FL/Wellington/WellingtonJingleBellsRun
CHECK OUT
MORE FUN
HOLIDAY
EVENTS ON PAGE 18!
EVENTS & Things to Do
Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. The cherished holiday favorite returns to the stage with Ballet Palm Beach’s breathtaking production of THE NUTCRACKER! Join Marie on her whimsical journey as she is whisked away by the enchanting Nutcracker Prince into a dazzling winter wonderland. Marvel at the captivating dancing snowflakes, witness thrilling battles of toy soldiers, and delight in a host of festive surprises that will fill the air with magic! Performaces at Alexander W. Dreyfoos Concert Hall. For information about prices and how to purchase tickets, please call Ballet Palm Beach at 561.630.8235 or visit www. balletpalmbeach.org.
Sensory Saturdays at Loggerhead Marinelife Center - Explore LMC with sensory friendly options on the first Saturday of the month (next one is 12/6). See their full schedule of daily activities and tours at https:// marinelife.org/daily-schedule/
Sensory Saturdays: Special
Exploration Hours at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium are held on the first Saturday of each month
(next one is 12/6) from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., offering a sensory-friendly experience for families affected by autism, sensory processing, cognitive challenges, or disabilities. Cost: Half off regular admission, purchased at the door. Learn more: https://www. coxsciencecenter.org/sensory-saturdays
Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida's We Heart Welaka on Sunday, December 7, 2025
Camp Welaka – Jonathan Dickinson State Park - Reconnect with nature at We Heart Welaka, hosted by the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. Enjoy a full day of outdoor adventures including canoeing, hiking, crafts, and the debut of Camp Welaka’s new archery range. Don’t miss a special animal encounter from Busch Wildlife Sanctuary and the chance to explore camp life with friends and family. Open to all ages. Lunch break from 12:30–1:15 PM. Preorder event T-shirts by November 11. Details and registration: https://www.gssef.org/en/ sf-events-repository/2025/we-heart-welakadec-7--2025.html
Grand Menorah Lighting in Wellington Sunday, December 14th • 5:30 PM Wellington Amphitheater (12100 Forest Hill Boulevard) Chag Sameach! Celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, with the annual lighting of the Grand Menorah.
Hanukkah celebrates triumph over adversity by recalling the renewal of Jewish life after a period of oppression. Learn more at wellingtonfl.gov/ Hanukkah. Hanukkah will continue for 8 nights, ending on December 22nd.
Daily Adventures Await at Sandoway Discovery Center
Every day is a new opportunity for discovery at Sandoway Discovery Center! Check out our program and feeding times to plan your next visit. From fascinating exhibits to
interactive experiences, there's always something exciting happening. Don't miss out on the wonders of science and nature – join us for a day filled with exploration and fun! Admission is $10 ages 3+ Learn more at www.sandoway.org.
Sun. Dec. 21st at 7 am - 13th
Wellington Jingle Bells 5K -This is the coolest Toy Drive in Town. Prizes for Male Female Age Group, Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elves & Stroller Division. The 12th Annual Wellington Holiday Run 5K (Certified by USA Track and Field) will be held on Sunday December 22, at 7:00 am around the inside of the Village Park campus, located at 11700 Pierson Rd Wellington, FL 33414. Register Now - https:// runsignup.com/Race/Events/FL/Wellington/ WellingtonJingleBellsRun