National Hot Cocoa Day (December 13) is all about enjoying a warm, comforting mug of hot chocolate during the cold winter days. The origins of hot cocoa can be traced back to the ancient Mayans, who drank a chocolate beverage as early as 500 BC. Today, hot cocoa is a symbol of cozy winter comfort.

1. CREATE A HOT COCOA BAR: Set up a “hot cocoa bar” with different flavor add-ins like peppermint, caramel, marshmallows, whipped cream, and even spices like cinnamon. Let kids experiment with flavors to create their own unique blends.

2. MAKE HOT COCOA BOMBS: Hot cocoa bombs are chocolate spheres filled with cocoa mix and marshmallows that “explode” when hot milk is poured over them. This is a fun craft to make with kids that also doubles as a delightful surprise drink.

3. HOT COCOA SCIENCE LAB: Turn making cocoa into a science experiment. Explore how different temperatures of milk or water affect the melting speed of chocolate or marshmallows, or make layered cocoa drinks for a visual experiment.

4. CREATE COCOA ART: Give kids whipped cream and chocolate syrup to create patterns or designs on top of their cocoa. You can even add colored marshmallows to create a seasonal picture!

5. CHRISTMAS STORYTIME WITH HOT COCOA: Find a cozy nook and read classic holiday tales together while sipping hot cocoa. Stories like The Polar Express are perfect for creating a magical atmosphere. You can pick a time each week of the holiday season for this special date with your kids.