Hello friends! How is the week going? We’re going on vacation. take a look at me IG stories for photos and adventures! – but for today’s post, I thought I would share some fun activities to do with the kids while they are home over the Christmas holidays.
Insert a BIG sigh of relief and all the joy for the Christmas holidays. I love having the kids home, and most of all, I love having no alarms (except on days when I have to teach), quiet mornings, and seeing where the day takes us. Our weeks are pretty busy here between school, gymnastics and dance team, horseback riding lessons, and soccer, so having a couple of weeks off is great. (Not months off. I’m not going to put that out into the universe.)
While I still have to work while the kids are home, I’ve tried to pre-write as much as possible and book calls into blocks of time so we can have some fun adventures while they’re home. I thought I would share some of my top ideas here and would love to know what you are doing with the family this winter break.
Winter Holiday Activities with Kids
Please note that these are just ideas and a brainstorming list, and there is no way we will do all or most of the things here. I’m really most excited about just RELAXING, but it will be great to have the lists in the afternoons when we’re looking for something to do!
Ideas for the home:
Camping in the living room
This was a big hit when the pandemic first hit and a way to distinguish the weekend from all the other days that were combined. We would roast marshmallows, watch a movie, and sleep in a tent downstairs. I learned very quickly that I hate air mattresses lol, but it was worth it for the memories for the kids.
make slime
This is our favorite recipe and you can add glitter to the mix for sparkly snow slime.
bake something
We rarely have time to bake while the kids are at school, so this is a special opportunity to bake together.
Simple science experiments at home
Did you know that learning can be as entertaining as it is enlightening? With a scientific touch, you and your little ones can embark on a journey through the wonderful world of winter. From creating frost in a can to making your own snow, there are countless experiments that will make your eyes shine brighter than a starlit winter sky. These activities will not only engage their curious minds but will also give you the opportunity to bond with your children and share memorable moments together. So, gather your lab coats and safety glasses – it’s time to have fun with education!
Show them a recipe
This is one of my goals for this Christmas holiday! We have a gas stove, so I’m not too comfortable with you using it yet, but I want to show you how to make eggs and pancakes on our large iron. It is electric, so it will be perfect for preparing breakfast (with supervision, of course).
Go on a treasure hunt
Although it’s a little cold, we still bundle up and go for walks with Maisey every day. Create a scavenger hunt list before you head out.
Hike
You are absolutely right: in the middle of this magnificent desert landscape there are truly impressive trails that transform into a winter wonderland during this fun season. Picture this: a crisp afternoon, the air tingling with just the right amount of chill, and you and your group embarking on an adventure to explore one of these beautiful trails. The sight of the desert adorned with a dash of winter magic is a sight to behold! As you walk the picturesque trails, take a moment to appreciate the stunning views, the serenity of nature, and the joy of spending time together. It’s the perfect way to combine a fun winter activity with a touch of exploration.
(Photo from our last trip to Sedona)
Read a book and watch the movie.
Liv is finishing the book. Wonder, so I’m excited to watch it with the kids one of these nights. I think I may have the perfect indoor activity to go with it. Why not gather some family friends and teach your kids some important lessons about kindness and empathy while enjoying a movie night? Cozy up on the couch, grab some blankets and snacks, and witness the wonder of history come to life on the screen. It’s a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones while doing an enriching activity. Plus, who doesn’t love a heartwarming story that inspires us to be our best selves?
Let them host a talent show or host a dance party.
This is one of my go-tos when I need to get some chores done: I put on music and the girls dance and play while I clean.
karaoke
Have this bluetooth microphone and the girls love it.
Play a board or card game
zingó, Guess who, old maidand One They are all favorites.
make a fort
snowball fights
Ah, the magic of winter! When the world transforms into a snowy paradise and the children return home from school with an extra pep in their step. And what better way to brave the cold than with a good old-fashioned snowball fight? Gather your family and friends, bundle up in warm layers, and let the snowballs fly! It’s a perfect time to have fun and teach kids about teamwork and friendly competition. Just be ready to dodge the oncoming snowballs and build your own snow fortress. Who says you can’t have fun while getting a little exercise?
work on a puzzle
Create a year-end photo album
I’m really trying to get better at this, so this post is my motivation to do so.
Create snow globe
It’s time to unleash your inner artist and bring a little winter magic into your home! Get creative with your kids and design your own snow globe. Start by finding the perfect size jar or container and then let your imagination run wild. Decorate the interior with miniature figurines, a sprinkle of sparkly snow and maybe even a small Christmas tree. The possibilities are endless! Not only will this activity keep the little ones entertained, but it will also provide them with a cozy indoor activity during those cool winter days. And the best part? You’ll have a charming decoration that you can keep long after the snow has melted.
Ideas for adventures and excursions:
Take them to spend their holiday gift cards at Target or the mall.
The little machine
Our kids LOVE the arcade at the mall and we always have fun playing for a while.
Mini golf
The Botanical Garden
The zoo
An aquarium
Take a short road trip or staycation
We’re lucky that Mount Lemmon is only an hour away so we can see some pine trees and snow! Imagine the excitement on your children’s faces as they experience the wonders of nature up close. This is truly a can’t-miss bucket list item! Not only will you have the opportunity to teach your little ones about the beauty of our natural world, but you will also create memories that will last a lifetime. So, grab your winter gear and get ready for a day full of laughter and snowy escapades. Believe me, this is an experience that will enrich the hearts and minds of your children and leave them with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the magic of our world.
So tell me friends: what are you doing for winter break? Any fun activities or little trips planned?
xo
gina
