Just as the back-to-school rush is settling down, the holidays come barreling along, adding to the overwhelming list of things to do: decorate, bake, plan, cook, and shop. Now, I am far from the expert on juggling all of these things—as evident by the holiday lights that stayed in the box last year—but can we talk about the shopping? Often the pressure to find the right gift while balancing the holiday budget makes an otherwise lighthearted tradition feel like work. One of the best solutions I’ve found is the NAPPA Holiday Gift Guide.

For years, we’ve shared this gift guide to help relieve the stress of holiday shopping. The toys and games on the list have been tested by grown-ups and kids alike, ensuring that they will not only bring hours of fun, but also will stand the test of time. To make holiday shopping go even faster, our online version of the gift guide includes direct links to the products. Just grab your laptop or tablet and get a chunk of your shopping done while you wait for ballet or basketball practice to wrap up.

With your shopping done, you’ll have more time to enjoy the holiday lights, a brisk skate on an outdoor rink, a performance of The Nutcracker, and parades. We’ve gathered a list of the holiday activities, including some exciting new additions, in our Calendar of Events.

Or, just maybe you’ll have time for a quick family getaway this year. We’ve found some of the most festive family-friendly resorts in Colorado and highlighted their spectacular holiday lineups in “Not Home for the Holidays.”

Whether you get away or stay close to home, we wish your family the happiest of holidays from the staff at Colorado Parent!