There’s the busy lead-up to Christmas, the happy frenzy of the day itself and that sweet spot afterwards, when children’s gifts are still new and interesting. But most kids get two weeks off school, and because of COVID-19, many families have been home for months already.
It’s easy to default to Netflix to watch another movie or play one more videogame, but these can leave some climbing the walls after awhile.
If you’re home with your kids, there are many things to do to fill the time. Many involve learning something together – not a bad idea for kids who’ll need to think again in January.
Here are five things to do over the winter break:
1. Take advantage of free activities
Check the “What’s on?” schedule for your community. Community centres, libraries, public parks and rinks often have great ways to spend time together both outdoors and virtually.
2. Download an educational app or two
Try giving your kids a series of challenges to complete. Google Earth can take them anywhere in the world. What are five things they see when standing beside Big Ben?
3. Deliver a gift overseas
The World Vision gift catalogue offers a window into the lives of kids in developing countries. Have your child browse the site and select a gift from your family to theirs. Your donation before December 31 means a 2020 tax receipt.
4. Read a new book together
You can read together or individually, then chat about the latest chapter at dinnertime each day. Which character do they like best? Can they guess what will happen next? If a new book arrived under the tree, there’s no better time to crack it open.
5. Be a socially distant local tourist
Is there a part of the city you haven’t visited? A nearby town you’d like to see? Pack a lunch, then hit the road. Document the day with pictures.
Come the first day of school, kids are often asked to write about what they did on their vacation. They may not have been to Florida this year, but they will have had some interesting experiences with you.
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