The holidays are right around the corner, which means your children will be spending a lot more time at home. If you're dreading hearing the classic, "I'm bored!" line from your littles, we can help you out.
Keep reading to find our list of top five things to do with kids over the Christmas break.
1. Get Crafty
The possibilities for Christmas craft ideas for kids are infinite. You don't need any fancy craft supplies to get started, either. Not only does crafting boost creativity, but it also helps with executive function and self-regulation skills.
Set them up with a step-by-step project from Pinterest or a craft magazine. You can also give them some paint, recycling, and other junk from around the house and see what they come up with. Plus, crafting can boost fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
2. Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to get the entire family involved in something positive for your community. It teaches your children about compassion, gratitude, and empathy. Volunteering also spreads cheer during the holidays to those less fortunate in your community.
You can collect toys or books for donation to charities or local hospitals. Make cards or deliver stuffed animals to old folks homes. You can even adopt a local family to teach your kids about the gift of giving.
3. Christmas Movie Marathon
When in doubt, a holiday movie marathon is a great way to spend a day or two of your Christmas break. Make some popcorn and hot cocoa and watch a few holiday classics on the couch together.
Have everyone in the family pick one or two movies they want to watch over the holidays. This allows the entire family to get involved and ensures everyone gets to see at least one movie they're dying to watch.
4. Have a Staycation
You don't need to travel far away to have an amazing holiday break. Turn yourselves into tourists and pretend like you're visiting your city for the first time.
Book a night or two in a local hotel. You can find great last-minute deals or mid-week stays to make your staycation more affordable. Take a dip in the hotel pool, order take-out, and tour nearby local sites.
You might be surprised at what new things you'll find you can do together.
5. Bake Together
Joceyln from Fired Up People says “Children of all ages can help in the kitchen making holiday cookies or Christmas squares. You know your children and their abilities best, so choose age-appropriate tasks they can do. A toddler can add pre-measured ingredients to bowls, while a pre-teen can try tackling a recipe independently.”
You can even organize a cookie swap with your neighbours or friends and family. Have everyone bake up a few dozen cookies to swap at a get together before Christmas.
Package up your baking and gift it to your neighbours. Everyone loves a little boost of unexpected Christmas cheer! Plus, it teaches your children about the spirit of giving during the holidays.
Enjoy the Holidays
The holidays come and go so fast, so be sure to take a minute to breathe it all in. Your children are small only once, so try to enjoy making new traditions and having fun together. We can promise you they'll cherish the memories you make with them for all their years to come.