Sometimes the simplest, laid back times with our families are remembered the most. Putting on a pajama party for your family can become a holiday ritual that allows you to reconnect and relax together.

Get comfortable! Encourage the whole family to change into pajamas, loungewear and slipper socks.

Turn your living room into an all-night party central. Bring in sleeping bags, pillows and bedding to and plan to sleep together in one room.

Have a camera ready! Take a family picture or photos to include in holiday cards, gifts or the scrapbook. Encourage children to write the captions.

Watch a movie together. A few favorites include “A Christmas Story”, “A Miracle on 34th Street”, “Annie”, and “Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”. Pick selections that offset the commercialism of the holiday season and offer quality messages.

Have plenty of popcorn, cider, hot cocoa and s’mores on hand for party refreshments.

Read a book together or make up a family story to tell. Everyone can take turns making up parts of the story.

Host a family sing-along. Encourage children to make up additional verses or hand motions for traditional holiday carols. Form a family band and add musical instruments to the fun.

Let children help prepare gifts of holiday cookies and treats, wrap presents or address greeting cards to finish up your last-minute holiday “to-do” list. Talk about what your family could do to help someone in need or a local charity this holiday season as well.

Take time out to pamper each other. Paint finger nails holiday red. French braid or style hair. Even dad will enjoy a foot massage or back rub. Gather up supplies in a big bowl and enjoy the opportunity to take a moment for yourself when you’re not rushing out the door for another party.

And one of my favorites, play pajama party trivia. Here are a few questions to get you started!

Q: In the movie, "Harry Potter", what is Hogwarts' motto?
A: Never tickle a sleeping dragon.

Q: What is Sleeping Beauty's real name?
A: Princess Aurora

BONUS:
Q: What was the name of the Prince who rescues her from her 20 year sleep?
A: Prince Phillip

Create more questions using popular movies, songs or books with sleep themes.