5 Ways to Keep Kids Engaged During the Holiday Break

Christmas is almost here, which means our kids will be on their two-week holiday break from school. As parents, it’s very tempting to let them sit on the couch or in their rooms all day scrolling on their phones or playing video games while we do last minute prep (or work from home), but that’s not healthy, and we all know that it’s not what the holidays are about. Here are 5 tips from our friends at Kids R Kids Learning Center of Avalon Park to keep the kiddos engaged this holiday break without relying on their devices!!

Plan Ahead

Before winter break, get the kids together and plan an activity calendar. Let them get creative and pick a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities, crafts, and holiday outings. This not only keeps them busy but also builds anticipation, especially among younger kids, gives them something to look forward to every day, and makes them feel more connected to the family.

Explore all the fun Holiday Events

The holiday season is an excellent time to get outside and explore what Central Florida has to offer. There are SO many local activities like skating, tree strolls, walking light tours, falling “snow” and a ton of other things for families to enjoy.

Outdoor activities are fun and beneficial for the kids’ physical and mental health. Playing outside is a wonderful way to take a break from technology, enjoy nature’s beauty, and have some holiday fun.

Encourage Creative Fun

It’s easy to let them play on their devices and game systems to keep them occupied and out of your hair, but getting them away from electronics for a bit is always a good thing.

The holidays are a great time to encourage creative play with homemade decorations, holiday-themed arts and crafts, and even homemade gifts. You could even consider hosting a family night where everyone makes something festive! Think cookies, art, or gifts!

Get out the Board Games and Puzzles

If you’re over 40, you no doubt have fond memories of playing board games with the family. Winter break is a great time to introduce your kids to board and puzzle games, which stimulate the mind and strengthen family bonds.

Some of our favorites are Garbage, Don’t Go Boom, Rummikub, Phase 10, and Code Names. We have SO much fun with our whole family playing games and doing puzzles. There is always a puzzle in action during the holiday season!

Decorate for the Holidays

If you are late to the party like me, getting the kids involved in decorating outside for the holidays is an excellent way to keep them engaged and build on the Christmas countdown.

This year we have been so busy with baseball that I haven’t gotten to the outside decor just yet. The kids love contributing to the holiday decorations, so I am going to let them go to town outside! Sure, we may end up with decor that looks nothing like a Hallmark movie, but the kids will have a blast and carry the memories forever.