8 Ways to Encourage Curiosity In Your Child

Curiosity is a natural part of childhood. Exploring the world around them helps children to grow and develop as people and as learners. While some kiddos keep curiosity on overdrive, others shy away from just about all experimental experiences. If your littles are the latter, read on for a few easy ways to spark curiosity in your toddler or preschooler.

1. Encourage interests. It’s easy to inspire when your kiddo already has an interest. Instead of pushing your child into exploring something they’d rather not spent time on, try an exploration-based activity that ties to anything they adore.

2. Start with a story. Reading is a gateway to worlds far away, other times, and other places that your child needs to explore. Ignite your tot’s curiosity with a playful story. What seems like a simple children’s book could lead to investigating a new idea or an afternoon of pretend play discovery.

3. Use open-ended questions. Think about the approach you take when introducing something new to your child. Forget about those same “yes/no” questions and opt for the open-ended versions. These question require your child to think critically about the subject at hand.

4. Go outside. What better way to encourage curiosity than the great outdoors? Take a nature walk at the local park, visit an animal preserve, or just hang in the back yard. Bring a magnifying glass, observation journal/drawing pad, and a bag to collect “specimens” with you too.

5. Invite questions. You aren’t the only one who should ask the questions. Kid-led questions help your child to express their curiosity and understand the world around them.

6. Don’t answer immediately. The million why, what, how, and where questions your tot asks come with answers. But that doesn’t mean you should dish the dirt ASAP. Instead, let your kiddo stop and think first. The more they think about their question, the more curious they’ll get.

7. Talk to your tot. Keep the conversation going as you go through your day. This means asking questions, making statements, and pointing out anything that you’re curious about. Whether you’re at the grocery store, Target, or your grandmother’s house, talk, talk, and talk some more.

8. Do something new. Yes, you should build on your child’s existing interests. But also pick a new activity that your kiddo might enjoy, helping to spark curiosity in anything from a never-before-tried art project to an outdoor adventure. If you’re not sure where to start, sign up for a mommy-child class. This lets you use the teacher/expert’s experience as a way to help your child explore.

RELATED: 9 Activities to Help Boost Your Toddler’s Development

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Britney Spears has been making headlines since the '90s, meaning her kids are no strangers to the spotlight. Despite how much they used to be with her everywhere, things haven't been smooth sailing for the family following the termination of the author's conservatorship in 2021. Still, there seems to be a lot love between Britney and her sons, and we were thrilled to learn she recently reunited with her youngest!

Keep reading for everything we know about Britney Spears' kids in 2024.

How many children does Britney Spears have?

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Thanks to frequent paparazzi shots of Britney Spears and her kids, we know that she has two sons! Sean Preston Federline was born September 14, 2005, making him 19 years old while his brother Jayden James Federline was born September 12, 2006 and just turned 18. Where did the time go?

Who did she have kids with?

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Britney Spears shares her sons with her ex-husband Kevin Federline. They got married on October 6, 2004 after a few months of dating, and their whirlwind romance led to the birth of their two sons (via Business Insider). The couple later divorced on July 30, 2007, but Kevin has spoken fondly of their relationship throughout the years.

He actually told PEOPLE in 2008 how much he loved the time they were together. "I pretty much realized that I was giving my life to her, and I was doing it without question," he said. "It was just something that was meant to happen. And probably my greatest moment with her is having our two sons."

Do Sean and Jayden live with Britney Spears?

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According to PEOPLE, Sean and Jayden currently live in Hawaii with their dad, Kevin as of 2023. And according to Kevin's attorney Mark Vincent Kaplan, there's a specific reason why their sons were excited to move. "It's an opportunity for Kevin and his wife, and the boys are ready to get away from the L.A. microscope."

If you remember, Kevin gained "sole custody" of Preston and Jayden in 2008 due to Britney Spear's "mental breakdown," (via US Weekly).

There was reportedly a rift between Britney Spears and her sons after her conservatorship ended in 2021, but she just reunited with Jayden! A Page Six insider revealed "they have been spending a lot of time together,” while a source told People, "spending time together has made her happy."

What have Sean and Jayden said about their mom?

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In 2022 Sean and Jayden shared their thoughts about their tense relationship with Britney. The Daily Mail reported Jayden said, "It's just going to take a lot of time and effort. I just want her to get better mentally. When she gets better I really want to see her again." Given Britney's breakdown and the news surrounding her conservatorship over the years, we can only imagine how much the public nature of their lives affected her kids.

What's the current status of Britney's relationship with her sons?

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There have been several ups and downs throughout the years, but Britney hasn't held back from publicly sharing thoughts about her kids. USA Today shared that Britney and Jayden have recently reconciled in L.A. which comes amidst reports she's finished paying child support for him (via TMZ).

However, Kevin's attorney Mark Vincent Kaplan says they're not sure what's happening behind the scenes. "If there has been a reconciliation it’s news to Kevin," he told TMZ.

Don't forget to revisit everything we know about Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' kids too!

I thought I'd discovered all of the best celebrity book clubs this year, but writing about the new novels debuting in 2025 proved I haven't. I saw an upcoming book — a riveting story that reads like how Succession might unfold in a Black family — was was surprised to find Mindy Kaling's stamp of approval. She's one of the brilliant minds that wrote for The Office, one of the best fan-favorite NBC shows to date. Also, she gave the world six seasons of The Mindy Project and multiple seasons of The Sex Lives of College Girls, continuously proving that she's as great of an actress as she is a screenwriter or producer.

Knowing this, I think it pans out that the 8 books on her book club list have intricate stories and equally pretty covers for reading that feels attainable.

Keep scrolling to learn about every book picked by Mindy's Book Studio

Amazon

The Vibrant Years by Sonali Dev

Anyone would be happy to be a million dollars richer, but not Bindu Desai. She's shocked, but she's also dreading the discovering of something that happened when she was younger. The only way she feels she can bypass this unfortunate event is by choosing to move to Florida. The problem with that is her daughter-in-law Aly still lives with her. As unexpected as this move is, Aly tries to find the bright side in it. She figures that this will give her a chance to reach a turning point in her career.

Then there's Aly's daughter, Cullie. As successful as she once was in the tech industry, Cullie's been struggling and has to face her investors. She's not completely helpless because they're in love with the idea of a dating app, but Cullie doesn't really know what it means to be immersed in the romantic world. Left with no other choice, she'll have to lean on her grandmother Bindu and her mom Aly to help her do what's felt impossible — date. You know, for research purposes.

Amazon

I'll Stop the World by Lauren Thoman

The deaths of Justin Warren's grandparents have followed him most of his life and he can't stand it. He's also over the fact he lives in a town where opportunity and excitement don't exist. Despite never meeting his grandparents, it seems nothing good has come from him being born.

Stuck with making odd choices left and right, Justin eventually meets Rose Yin. The ironic thing is that he discovers she lives in a time before he was born, meaning he's somehow landed himself back in time. And guess who's still alive at this point? His grandparents.

In order to get Justin back where he belongs, he and Rose have a short amount of time to figure out what could've cause this time jump. Also, they'll have to try to rewrite history by preventing something that triggers his grandparents' deaths.

Amazon

The Better Halfby Alli Frank & Asha Youmans

Nina Morgan Clarke has been through a lot between her divorce and making sure her daughter Xandra settles in nicely at boarding school. But now it's her time to shine as a the head of Royal-Hawkins School. She's been waiting for this moment and it's finally hers.
To celebrate, Nina and her bestie Marisol decided to go on a girls' trip. Just as she's finally trusting that everything's going according to plan, Jared Jones makes an unpleasant appearance. He's all ego with his Harvard education and knows how to get under Nina's skin. Suddenly, Xandra's making huge accusations at school while Nina's embracing something that she never thought she would.

Only one question remains: Is this truly the better half of Nina's life?

Amazon

Woke Up Like This by Amy Lea

Charlotte Wu takes her organizational skills seriously and wants to make sure prom is flawlessly executed. She's doing well until a little mishap causes her to face-plant into J.T. Renner. He's the last person she wants to run into, but she doesn't remember much besides waking up years later as a 30-year-old woman. By her side is the sexy bane of her high school existence — J.T. Renner.

They're both confused about their adult lives and how they went from hating to loving each other, so they let curiosity lead the way. What they both discover is there was also more to their high school selves than they initially knew about. As much as they yearn to be teenagers again, they'll have to figure out if they want things to change or stay the same now that they know there's love between them.

Amazon

Almost Surely Dead by Amina Akhtar

Dunia Ahmed went from being an amazing pharmacist to having her case talked about in the world of true crime. No one knows where she is as she's disappeared without a trace. Prior to that, she lived in New York and was dealing with the fallout from her engagement as well as the grief from losing her mom. In her mind, things couldn't get any worse until she realizes someone wants her dead.

Amazon

Friends in Napa by Sheila Yasmin Marikar

Raj and Rachel Ranjani are excited to spend time with their trusted friends in Napa Valley. They have a beautiful itinerary that includes spending time at their mansion, wine tastings, and more! But, these friends haven't seen each other in a long time.
From a cold welcome to the fact the Ranjanis don't seem to be on the same team, one weird thing after another happens. There's old arguments and rekindled crushes that rips this friend group to shreds. Worse, one of them doesn't make it make home because they're discovered dead. But, who could've wanted to kill them in the first place?

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Sorry for the Inconvenienceby Farah Naz Rishi

Farah Naz Rishi's freshman year of college was amazing in her eyes. She managed to move on from her last relationship and mom's marriage expectations, making her feel like she could do anything. She even stopped looking for love until Stephen came into view.

Neither of them feel butterflies at first, plus Farah knows there's no way Stephen would gain her mom's approval. But time gives way to a burning flame that becomes a solid bond because Stephen is there for all of Farah's ups and downs. He's become the one person she trusts with her all of her feelings and intimate moments in a platonic way.

But, sometimes love is hard to ignore when it's a slow burn that gives way to something that defies familial and societal rules.

Amazon

Drop Dead Sisters by Amelia Diane Coombs

Remi Finch doesn't get along with her family at all and knows there's nothing she has in common with her sisters. She has too many anxious thoughts in her mind that makes her keep everyone at arm's length. But, a family reunion convinces her to at least try. It all sounds great until someone dies where they've been camping.
The sisters develop an elaborate scheme to dispose of the body and eliminate the chance others will discover what happened. It's an odd way to start bonding, but sometimes traumatic things have a way of making people realize what's important.

Don't forget to check out Jenna Bush Hager's December book club pick after this!

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Blake Lively is as multifaceted as they come. She's an actress who has starred in titles like Gossip Girl, A Simple Favor, and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (plus It Ends With Us). She's the founder of Betty Buzz, which has a variety of non-alcoholic mixers that taste just as good on their own as they do with liquor. And, she's also a mom. Lively has been outspoken about protecting her children from the paparazzi, making rare public appearances with them for events like her husband Ryan Reynolds' Hollywood Walk Of Fame Ceremonyandcozy date nights.

When Lively and Reynolds seemingly announced the birth of their fourth child last year, we melted. Here's everything you need to know about Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids.

Is Taylor Swift friends with Blake Lively's kids?

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Yes, Taylor Swift loves Blake Lively's kids! The family has shown up to the Eras Tour multiple times, and most recently supported the popstar at her concert in New Orleans, Louisiana. Blake and Ryan were joined by oldest daughter James (who looked amazing in a Reputation-inspired 'fit), and I can't believe how much James and Blake look alike! She's truly her mini-me! At the Philadelphia show of the Eras Tour, which Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively attended, Taylor said hello from the stage.

One funny detail about Ryan Reynolds' kids that I love is when he mentioned the girls finally realized Taylor Swift was a popstar. "I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he tellsThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"

For Super Bowl Sunday in 2024, Blake Lively joined Taylor Swift to support beau (and KC Chiefs tight end) Travis Kelce. "Last week I left my kids for the first time ever," she says on Instagram. "I took pictures upside down and had no clue. I treated a friendship bracelet like a Flat Stanley for my husband like I didn’t realize it wasn’t ‘07. I borrowed more jewelry than the skeleton in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. And I went clubbing. Now I know what my episode of TheTwilight Zone would look like."

How do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively prioritize their kids?

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At the end of September, Ryan Reynolds revealed how different parenting seems to be now than when he was a kid. "Parents today are so different. We're so soft," he said at HubSpot’s INBOUND tech conference (via People). "I don't yell. I grew up with like — it was nuts, it was an improvised militia.”

“Now it's like, I can go look at all my resources for parenting and remind myself how to be perfectly compassionate,” he continued. "Something I love about [conflict resolution], and I know this is not very fancy, but what I love about it is that you can meet somebody where they are, and you don't have to be right or wrong...You can disagree and still connect."

Blake Lively recently joined an episode of her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' costar Amber Tamblyn's Further Adoand revealed the one unbreakable rule she made with Ryan Reynolds.

“When Ryan and I got together, we made a rule not to work at the same time,” she says. “So that we could always prioritize our personal life...That takes working really hard when we're not. Just like financial planning and sustaining that; it takes balance.”

I love that Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are serious about their family life, and that they have identified what works for them and are sticking with it.

What is the name of Blake Lively's 4th baby?

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Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' fourth baby is named Olin, which he revealed during the July 22 premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine!

Before Ryan chose to reveal the name, he appeared on the Today show and made a cheeky joke about it after the hosts urged him to spill the beans. He said, "We always wait for Taylor to tell us what the child's name will be. We'll say this: we're still waiting."

What are Blake Lively kids ages?

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Blake Lively's kids are all under 10. James is 9 (turning 10 on December 16), Inez is 7 (turning 8 on September 30), Betty is 4 (turning 5 on October 4), and Olin turned 1 in February.

What gender is Ryan and Blake's fourth child?

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On July 26, Ryan Reynolds confirmed that he and Blake Lively's fourth baby, born in February 2023, is a boy in an Instagram video supporting mental health charity Walking 4 Hope. Speaking with founder John Bell, who struggled with suicidal ideation after the 2020 loss of his son Jake, Reynolds says, “I want to share with you that I, too, have a son...Boy, John, if I love him one-tenth as much as you love Jake, I’ll feel like I’ve done a pretty d—mn good job.”

Considering how adorable James, Inez, and Betty are, I can only imagine how cute Blake Lively's son is!

How many children do Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have?

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Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have four kids. They welcomed their third daughter in 2019, making this new addition to the family their fourth child.

Did Blake Lively have a 4th baby?

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Blake Lively posted a pic on Super Bowl Sunday in 2023 showing what appears to be a post-baby body with the caption "Been busy."

Lively confirmed her fourth pregnancy in September 2022 when she arrived at her Forbes event in NYC cradling a baby bump and by posting her own personal photos on Instagramhoping that "the 11 guys waiting outside [her] home for a 🦄 sighting will leave [her] alone."

How old was Blake Lively when she had her first child?

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Blake Lively was 27 when she gave birth to her first daughter, James, in December of 2014.

Why did Blake Lively name her daughter James?

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The couple decided to name their daughter James after Reynolds' late father. While the name connects both James and Reynolds to his father, it also gives Lively the chance to bond with her daughter over having historically male names. "I liked having a boy's name," Lively said on Good Morning Americain 2015. "I thought I'd pass it on."

Their third daughter Betty's name is a tribute to Lively's late father. We didn't know the name of the couple's third baby until Taylor Swift used all three names in her 2020 album folklore. Swift also used James' voice at the beginning of her 2017 track "Gorgeous"! Does that mean we'll hear one of Ryan Reynolds' children in Reputation (Taylor's Version)? I hope so!

What has Ryan Reynolds said about raising their kids?

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In a conversation with Hugh Jackman ahead of Deadpool & Wolverine, Ryan Reynolds opened up about how his family has helped his anxiety. "I think it makes it better because your focus is less on yourself and more on your kids," he says (via People). "I love that I've had anxiety because when I see my kids experiencing some of that, which is probably genetic, I know how to address it in a way that is compassionate, that actually allows them to feel seen. I know that I can't just fix it. And I can communicate all that stuff to them and with them. I'm always grateful for it."

Per People, Ryan Reynolds has also made it clear he and Blake are wholly invested in the kids' daily lives. The doting husband and father enjoys the moments of "walking them to school and walking them back" as it deepens their bond. More than anything, Ryan and Blake's main goal is to make sure they teach their kids how to be introspective with Ryan saying "the thing we sort of hang our hat on the most is self-awareness with our kids."

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However, that doesn't mean Blake and Ryan don't absolutely love being parents. "We're very excited [and] we wouldn't do this four times if we didn't love it," he says in an interview with CNBC's Power Lunch. "Everybody's doing great. Everybody's actually doing fantastic. I think if we hadn't figured it out by now, I think we'd be in deep, deep trouble."

"It's a zoo over here," he jokes. "This is my office here, this is where I'll probably — to be honest, I'll probably spend the rest of my life in here."

We love how much energy Ryan and Blake are pouring into their kids. It's always beautiful when parents are able to be present with their kids and teach them how to be present with themselves. Ryan Reynolds has also mentioned how having daughters "has been such a ride." Since he comes from a family of all boys, having daughters is something that was beyond his wildest dreams! “I love being a girl dad,” Ryan tells Access in 2020. “I have three daughters, which I never in a million years would imagine.”

He mentioned his newest child in June of 2023, when he announced his new series Bedtime Stories. "The idea for a show made to help everyone fall asleep was born the same day as my fourth child," he says on Instagram.

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The Deadpool actor also recently offered some parenting advice on Amanda Hirsch’s hit podcastNot Skinny But Not Fat. "Embrace the chaos,” he tells Hirsch. "[Blake] always says, ‘They're all under our roof right now. The whole family's under our roof right now. We have them all.’ And that is a fleeting thing. Not an infinite resource, you know?”

While Reynolds understands firsthand how overwhelming parenting can feel, he also doesn't wish away this time with four young kids: “Just say, ‘Think about what you would give in 40 years or 30 years to come back and enjoy this one moment.’"

How has motherhood affected Blake Lively?

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Blake Lively opened up about how Ryan Reynolds and she monitor screen safety for their kids, which is definitely something top-of-mind in 2024. “This is not an ad. I get nothing out of this. I just love @tappityapp,” she said of the STEM-focused educational app. “It’s engaging, informative, fun and they care about safety."

She also jokes that she's learning new things right along with her kids! But, no matter how educational or fun an app is, Blake Lively also emphasizes the importance of engaging with her kids' devices: "I’m always triple checking any kids app constantly for safety because that’s my responsibility not an app’s, but I do LOVE this one.”

Despite its fun and funny moments, the actress has admitted being a mom is hard, but she did it with her signature dry sense of humor. “BettyBooze at your service," she wrote in an Instagram Story announcing the new brand. "These are recipes I’ve been making for loved ones for years. But I have 4 kids now. And I’m tired. So here they are. In a can."

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for American Cinematheque

However, Blake Lively absolutely loves motherhood, and says in a 2022 interview with Forbes that having children has made her feel more comfortable in her own skin. "Once I had children, that just became even more profound because my time was even more precious, but also I think having children for me made me feel so much more in my skin," she says. "I never felt more myself or at ease in my own body or more confident — not to say that there aren't a bevy of insecurities coming at me a million times a day, but I just feel incredibly settled."

Speaking with People in 2021, Lively also explains how important it is that her children see her accomplish things outside the home. "I want to be as present of a mother as humanly possible and I want them to feel my presence, but I also think the best way to be the best mother is to show them that you can have a life and have a passion and have an identity outside of just being a mother," Lively says.

While she acknowledges that motherhood is all-encompassing, and it looks different for everyone, she knows that having your own identity is very important. "Teaching them that they can maintain themselves and that everything is possible [is crucial]," she adds.

When did Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have their daughters?

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Blake Lively's children were all born in the last 10 years. Blake Lively's daughters are James, Inez, Betty, and her fourth child is named Olin! Their fourth baby's name was announced during the premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine. Blake gave birth to James in 2014, while Inez was born in 2016. Lively gave birth to Betty in 2019 and Olin in February of 2023.

Do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids have nannies?

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Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' children don't have a nanny. "I feel like I could sometimes have a bit of a short fuse, but there's just been this weirdly endless supply of patience," Ryan told GQ in 2015. "I have no problem waking up five times in the middle of the night and changing diapers, and as exhausted as you get, I have this stupid grin on my face all the time."

Check out our email newsletter for the latest celebrity news and trending content, and check back here for the latest news on Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids!

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This story has been updated.

With the holidays in full swing, it seems only right to snuggle up on the couch and watch Christmas movies. And the first movie that’s at the top of our list? It’s none other than 2003’s rom-com Love Actually, which stars Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightley, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Alan Rickman, Andrew Lincoln and Emma Thompson. Sure, the movie will forever tug at our heartstrings. (We are STILL upset that Sarah and Karl didn’t end up together.) But what makes the timeless holiday classic so great are the relatable characters. And, while watching the film, if you ever resonated with Natalie because she gave off major Gemini vibes, then you’re certainly not the only one.

Keep reading to find out which Love, Actually character you are, based on your zodiac sign.

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Aries (March 21 – April 20): Colin Frissell

Aries like to take action and go after what they want. So are we really surprised that Colin Frissell embodies this zodiac sign to a T? Not only does he move to America to find a girlfriend, but his plan actually works, and he ends up taking her back to London with him. Talk about a man who’s bold and ambitious.

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Taurus (April 21 – May 21): Jamie

Tauruses are known for being as loyal, dependable and hard-working. This is the case for Jamie, who is diligent writing his book when he meets Aurélia, who is hired as his personal housekeeper. If that wasn’t enough Jamie is patient and steady. So, when Jamie enrolled in a class to learn Aurélia’s native language and flew to her hometown in order to propose to her, we couldn’t help but think how Taurus coded he was.

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Gemini (May 22 – June 21): Natalie

With Geminis, they are referred to as the sign with “two faces.” When Natalie first meets the Prime Minister, she is nice and respectful…until she utters the word “fuck” right in front of him, which he makes him smile uncontrollably (and us too!). On one hand, Natalie can be shy, sweet and polite. But whenever she’s around someone she’s comfortable (i.e. her family), she has quite the potty mouth. Could it be her celestial twin peeking through?

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Cancer (June 22 – July 22): Karen

When it comes to Cancers, they are known as the nurturers of the zodiac signs. After Karen finds out about her husband’s brief indiscretion with a co-worker, one would think that her first thought would be to get a divorce and leave him. But in the end, they stay together for the sake of their children. Consider Karen a true “ride or die” partner.

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Leo (July 23 – August 22): The Prime Minister

Being that he holds a high ranking position, the Prime Minister is well accustomed to being in the spotlight. While Leo’s are considered to be natural-born leaders, it comes as no surprise that the Prime Minister exudes a sense of confidence and comfortability when it comes to being the center of attention. And they are willing to protect the ones they love, which makes the Prime Minister’s remark toward the President of the United States (after he saw the commander in chief behaving inappropriately toward Natalie) that much more iconic.

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Virgo (August 23 – September 21): Sarah

Sarah was willing to do anything for her brother: even if that meant sacrificing her own happiness. Similarly, Virgos have this impeccable ability to focus and hone in on their skills or whatever they put their mind to, hence why Sarah put all of her energy into supporting her brother, who was struggling with mental illness.

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Libra (September 22 – October 22): Juliet

Some may think Julie was unfaithful when ran up to Mark (AKA her husband’s best friend) and kissed him after professing his love through cue cards. But many Libras may fall victim to this: they tend to be indecisive, and as a result, this zodiac sign could end up putting other people’s feelings before their own. And the same thing can be said for Julie, who kisses Mark after he confesses his love for her. Nevertheless, Libras are just lover girls/boys at heart.

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Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Harry

Known for being quite intense and mysterious, Scorpios can be misunderstood in many ways. (Yes, even more than Geminis…) So, it’s not hard to see clear parallels between Harry and Scorpios when he *coughs* starts having an affair with his co-worker and keeps it a secret from his wife *coughs*.

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Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Jeannie

Sagittariuses are vibrant, fun-loving individuals who enjoy a good adventure. When Jeannie meets Colin in a bar upon his arrival to the States, she is so enamored with his British accent. And she is so open to exploring a romance with Colin upon first meeting him. Well, her and her three friends, that is…

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Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Mark

Similar to how Capricorns are incredibly loyal and dedicated to their relationships (whether romantic or platonic), Mark is determined to not ruin his friendship with Peter (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor). Even though he is madly in love with his best friend’s wife, Juliet. NBD.

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Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Joanna Anderson

Joanna Anderson really is THAT girl. When she performs “All I Want for Christmas Is You” at the Christmas concert, she truly steals the show. (Not to mention that her voice is undoubtedly angelic.) So, it goes without saying that Joanna gives off major Aquarius vibes. This zodiac sign is known for being authentic and creative. Plus, Aquariuses are considered the humanitarian astrological sign. Need we say more?

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Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Sam

Sam is compassionate, empathic and sensitive; just like a Pisces. In case you need a refresher, Sam learned how to play drums so he can perform alongside Joanna in the Christmas concert, not to mention he ran through an airport to profess his love for her before she left for America. If that’s not true love, then we don’t know what is.

Who is your favorite character in Love Actually? Let us know on Instagram and Sound off in the comments below and follow us on Instagram and check out the cozy new Christmas movies coming out in 2024!

We're excited about how cozy, enchanting, and yummy this holiday is going to be, and Christmas appetizers are a huge part of that. For us, Christmas appetizers bring forth the nostalgic feeling of endlessly snacking on peppermint bark and puppy chow as a kid. With starter recipes this easy, there's no reason to be a scrooge about making your holiday menu. Whether you're dreaming up a new lineup of Christmas cocktails or a festive dessert, you can get creative with merry mealtime –without giving yourself too much to handle. Here are some easy Christmas appetizers that will satiate for a lazy holiday at home.

You Won't Believe How Easy These Holiday Appetizers Are To Make

Christmas involves a lot of prep, especially when you're hosting. Whether your family is all about those casual get togethers, you're helping Grandma with Christmas dinner, or you're throwing your first dinner party, the last thing you want is to be stressed over a ridiculously difficult recipe. That's where these easy Christmas appetizers (which can also double as side dishes) come into play! Not only will that take pressure off of you, but there are so many different options that you're sure to find a few sweet and savory recipes that everyone loves.

Brit + Co

Italian Hand Pies

Follow this exact recipe for a fully vegan Christmas appetizer, or choose your own adventure by making swaps for the plant-based picks. No matter how you make them, these savory hand pies will taste amazing for a pre-dinner snack.

Brit + Co

Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites

You'd never guess it, but certain kinds of chocolates and cheeses work well together, kind of like snack and wine pairings. This appetizer-ready recipe combines Parmigiano Reggiano and bitter dark chocolate for a mind-blowingly merry munchie.

Brit + Co

Greek Stuffed Mushrooms

To make these bite-sized Christmas appetizers, you'll essentially stuff mushrooms full of the contents of Greek salad. That means this pick is super healthy, but also super customizable, too. If you'd rather stuff your mushrooms with melty cheese, there's nothing stopping you!

Brit + Co

Sesame Shrimp Puffs

This savory, layered snack takes flavor inspiration from Asian dishes, which will totally make it a standout among the more traditional holiday dishes you're serving this season.

Cabot Creamery

Butter Candles

If you make a butter candle as a Christmas appetizer, just know it's gonna be the talk of the table. When lit, it will not only generate some seriously melty butter to dip crusty bread in, but it will add to the cozy Christmas dinner ambience, burning warm light.

Brit + Co

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese Dip

All you have to say is "cheese dip," and your dinner guests will flock to the snack area. To complete the appetizer, make these easy bacon twists that are crafted with pre-made pastry dough. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Keto Cheese Ball

Keto or not, you'll be blown away by this cheese ball. It's covered in chives and bacon crumbles, the ultimate duo to pair with crunchy crackers.

Brit + Co

Spinach Dip

Spinach dip is a no-fail Christmas appetizer. You can serve it hot or cold, and it's going to be delicious every single time.

Brit + Co

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

If you love sushi but don't want to eat a whole roll before Christmas dinner, this appetizer is the perfect pick for you. With smoked salmon, rice, avocado, and onions, everyone will want more of these delicious bites. They're super easy to customize too, so you can leave out (or add) whatever toppings you want.

Brit + Co

Baked French Onion Meatballs

Meatballs are one of the greatest Christmas appetizers because they're bite-sized and delicious. We'd definitely consider that a win-win. This French-themed recipe features cremini mushrooms, garlic, and gruyere cheese for some seriously rich flavor.

Brit + Co

Vegan Butter Board Recipe

Butter boards are one TikTok trend that we can totally get behind, and this updated version gives the dish a sweet (and healthy) twist with vegan butter and plenty of berries. Coconut flakes and almonds add some texture, but if your guests have allergies, simply leave them off!

Brit + Co

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

This delicious Christmas appetizer is a great way to complement the all kinds of recipes that you'll be having throughout the holiday season. Since they take less than an hour to make, they're great as a pre-dinner snack while the ham is in the oven. They're easy, they're delicious, and they're Paleo!

Brit + Co

Beet Hummus

Add some vibrant color to your holiday appetizer game with this superfood dip. Dress it up with festive veggies like rainbow carrots, watermelon radish, and golden beets. Talk about eye candy!

Brit + Co

Sweet Potato + Feta + Honey Appetizer

This holiday appetizer provides a mouthwatering balance between sweet and salty that will definitely make its way to your table year after year. Spice it up with some extra seasoning or leave it as-is based on your preference. Either way, don't worry about setting out the Tupperware — you won't have any leftovers!

Brit + Co

Vegan Baked Brie Recipe

Baked brie is one of our favorite Christmas appetizers, but if you usually can't take part in the creamy goodness, have no fear. This vegan recipe swaps regular cheese for a cashew-based alternative. You can use cashews to make a convincingly creamy dip, and the nutritional yeast in this pick gives it a cheesy flavor that's almost too good to be true.

Food Lovin' Family

Vegetable Pinwheels

You can make these cream cheese and veggie pinwheels with any filling you prefer, making it a dish that gives you a ton of variety at the snack table. They're so colorful, too! Try this Christmas appetizer with different types of wraps or try filling them with fruit for even more snackage.

The Blond Cook

Easy Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers

These flaky, cheesy, and spicy poppers are *the* go-to Christmas appetizer idea when you want big flavor, but are short on time. Use veggie cream cheese instead of regular to give this snack a fuller flavor.

Half Baked Harvest

Cranberry Brie Pastry Tarts

What's more festive than cranberries and brie? Bright, cheery, and just a bit sweet, this Christmas appetizer recipe is exactly what any party needs to get going. And they're simple to make, too!

Greens & Chocolate

Red Cooking Wine Caramelized Onion Baked Brie

Baked brie is not only a fan-favorite Christmas hors d'oeuvre, but it's quick to throw in the oven while you're working on your other appetizers. This recipe uses caramelized onions and a little bit of wine to bring out the flavors of the cheese. We love eating this cheese with crackers and fruit.

Full of Plants

Vegan Smoked “Salmon” Cheese Rolls

If you love the elegance of sushi but don't want to leave fish out all night, this might be the best Christmas appetizer recipe for you. You'll never guess what the vegan salmon is made from. These are also a great way to make sure any vegan family members at the party aren't excluded.

Greens & Chocolate

Citrus Marinated Olives and Feta

For something tangy and savory to snack on, look no further than this recipe. Besides being full of tasty flavor, telling your family that you marinated your own olives will make for a toothsome conversation starter!

Need Menu Ideas? Steal These Christmas Finger Food Recipes.

Let's save the forks and knives for dinner! Finger foods are easy for both prep and clean up. All you need is a few small plates and napkins, and your friends and family can enjoy these holiday appetizers at their leisure. Finger foods are also great for kids because they're often bite-sized, but that doesn't mean that everyone can't enjoy them! From bacon-wrapped scallops to Chinese chicken egg rolls, don't be surprised if these Christmas appetizers leave your guests speechless.

Fit Living Eats

Holiday Pomegranate Guacamole on Roasted Sweet Potato Toasts

What's red and green and sweet underneath? These festive Christmas party appetizers topped with pomegranate seeds and guacamole! With so many different consistencies and flavors coming together, this recipe really provides an appetizer experience like no other.

Dinner at the Zoo

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail is always a hit — especially when you serve it in a fancy glass! These shrimp are served with a zesty cocktail sauce and to add that Mexican flair, they're topped with a refreshing tomato and avocado relish to make them a holiday appetizer recipe to remember.

Blissful Basil

Vegan Walnut, Sage, and Cranberry Stuffed Holiday Mushrooms

Mushrooms were meant to be stuffed — and when you pop one of these tasty and easy holiday appetizers into your mouth, you'll agree. The nutty, herbaceous, and slightly sweet filling creates a palate pleaser that will wow all your friends.

Amanda Wilens

Charcuterie Wreath

The only thing we love more than a Christmas appetizer is a themed Christmas appetizer, and this charcuterie wreath is just perf! It's a cute (and festive) take on the usual cheese board. Use plenty of rosemary sprigs for some greenery and throw in a few chocolate pieces for good measure.

Cooks with Cocktails

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops With Cajun Cream Sauce

The bacon-wrapped scallop is kicked up with a creamy and dreamy Cajun sauce. This is one recipe that's tasty enough to be made all year long!

The Roasted Root

Maple Rosemary Roasted Nuts

Warm, aromatic roasted nuts help you stay cozy when it's cold outside, and the maple and rosemary flavors in this holiday hors d'oeuvre work so nicely together. Not only do these make a tasty appetizer, but you can fill your go-to candy jar with them for a snack all holiday season long.

Half Baked Harvest

Chinese Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Egg Rolls + Sweet Chile Pomegranate Sauce

You've never seen egg rolls like this. The crispy egg rolls become swoon-worthy bites when mixed with the sweet, tart pomegranate dipping sauce. Since pomegranates are in season in wintertime, make sure to get a few to make some extra holiday recipes.

The Cozy Apron

Crispy Caprese Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

We understand that people share a deep love for crock pots full of Swedish meatballs, but these babies take the cake. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella, these meatballs will totally become a holiday tradition.

Try These Delicious Dip Ideas For Christmas Eve!

By the time Christmas Eve comes around, you've probably already made half a dozen appetizers for your office party, your friend's White Elephant gift exchange, and your family's Christmas dinner. If you're feeling burnt out on regular finger foods, go for a dip instead! Dips are a great way to make a customizable appetizer that everyone will be able to enjoy. Make some sweet and savory dips to give guests a few different options, and pair 'em with your favorite cracker, veggie, or even cookies. Chef's kiss!

What's Gaby Cooking

Cheesy Artichoke Dip

A party just isn't a party without a melty dip! Get ready for a little extra indulgence with this ooey-gooey mixture that's packed with plump artichokes and topped with toasty breadcrumbs for an easy Christmas appetizer. Our mouths are watering!

The Recipe Critic

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

A pop of dried cranberries makes this holiday cheese ball a tart and savory Christmas-themed appetizer to make for your next holiday bash. It's an unconventional take on a cheese ball that uses your favorite traditional holiday ingredients.

Pinch of Yum

Curry Hummus

Why have run-of-the-mill appetizers for a Christmas party when you can have curry hummus? This recipe is easy to follow, even if you've never made your own hummus before. We love to dip carrots and cucumbers, but the veggies you pick are totally up to you.

Cooks with Cocktails

Bacon Wrapped Potatoes with Warm Apple Cream Cheese Dip

The apple cream cheese dip paired with these fluffy and crunchy potato bites will add a nice, sweet touch to your Christmas dinner table. It's safe to say that no one else will have an appetizer quite like this!

Averie Cooks

Cheesy Chicken Fritters

What's better than tender chicken, mozzarella that help prepare your taste buds for Christmas dinner? We highly suggest you cook this easy recipe.

Crowded Kitchen

Vegan Jalapeno Poppers

If you want something that's cheesy and gluten-free, try prepping these vegan jalapeño poppers for a spicy Christmas appetizer idea.

Kathryn's Kitchen

Hot Cheesy Spinach Dip

This tasty spinach dip is the icing on the cake for all the other holiday appetizers you'll be serving. Just ensure that you bake it to bubble perfection, that way your cheese pulls will be epic.

Pink Owl Kitchen

Southern Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes are a southern staple that 1000% deserve a seat at your Christmas table this year. The salty, crunchy outer contrasts beautifully with the tender inner veg, but the real magic lies within the dipping sauce you make to serve this app.

Vanilla and Bean

Olive Artichoke Crostini

If the idea of eating a finger sandwich doesn't sound fancy enough for your holiday soiree, this olive + artichoke crostini recipe is going to hit the spot. This Christmas appetizer is unbelievably easy too customize, too, so you can accomodate for the vegans and vegetarians in your life.

Woman Scribbles

Bang Bang Chicken

This recipe is a take on Bonefish Grill's famous Bang Bang Shrimp – yum! What makes this holiday appetizer recipe extra-special is that it doesn't exclude those who may have a seafood allergy, using chicken instead.

Clamato

Shrimp Cocktail

Should you have some seafood-lovers stopping by on Christmas, cater directly to them by whipping up this quick and easy shrimp cocktail recipe! Here's how to make it:

(via Clamato)

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp, deveined and chopped
  • 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ cup Clamato®
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 Hass avocado, diced
  • ½ mango, diced (optional)
  • Cilantro for garnish

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, add the lemon juice, olive oil, cilantro, sugar, Clamato, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir for a few seconds and set the salsa aside.
  3. Add in the avocado, mango (if you like mango), and shrimp.
  4. Put the shrimp in a schooner-type glass and pour salsa on top.
  5. Garnish with cilantro and serve.

Find more recipes like these on our Pinterest and email newsletter! You can also check out our online cooking and baking classes for more inspo.

Additional reporting by Dana Sandonato, Chloe Williams, Jasmine Williams, and Meredith Holser.

This post has been updated.