Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Long Beach, CA

We've wrapped the presents and stuffed the stockings. Now it's time for the big day itself. The best thing about being a parent is experiencing the fun all over again, through your child. When I was a kid, I woke up at the crack of dawn on Christmas morning and raced downstairs to shake out my stocking, but today I'm more excited about seeing the expression on my daughter's face when she sees the hot pink bike with tassels.

Preschoolers are a lot of fun at Christmas. Yes, they can be bossy and sassy, but they are also old enough to sing the songs and "help" in the kitchen. They aren't jaded yet. I'm trying to enjoy the moment in the knowledge that it won't always be this way.

Last year our Christmas was a big, hectic family gathering at my parents' house in Louisiana. This year I'm looking forward to a cozy day at home with my husband and daughter. Whether you flew through a blizzard to see your second cousins in Boston, or you're watching the rain outside your window in Long Beach, I hope the holiday season is full of joy for you and your family. Merry Christmas!