Merry almost-Christmas

School's out or will be today and the holiday break is here. If you'll be hosting friends and family for holiday parties or vacation-week get-togethers, try these tips to keep your gatherings merry, bright, and just a bit healthier.

• Play holiday party games. Here are 17 suggestions and starters for seasonal party activities.
• Serve healthy snacks so little guests (big ones, too) fill up on fruit, vegetables, and protein instead of candy canes and eggnog.
• Give inexpensive, active toys as party favors or stocking stuffers.

You'll find many more ideas for kid-friendly Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Year's Eve parties at these links. Have a happy holiday weekend!

_{Photo: Getty Images}