7 Fun Ways to Keep Kids Busy During Holiday Break
| 3 min read
For many kids winter break is one of the best times of the year: They’re out of school, able to sleep in and can enjoy lots of time playing with their friends. But while your children may feel nothing but joy, you may feel a bit strapped for ideas on how to keep them busy. These fun, healthy activities will help keep your kids active and engaged, and keep the season jolly.
- Grab a sled or snow tube. There’s nothing like the rush of sliding down the snowiest hill you can find. It’s a great way to burn off some of that extra energy they may have and get in some exercise (it takes a lot of effort to climb back up to the top!). Just make sure to put safety first. Bundle your kids up in warm, waterproof gear and avoid clothing like scarves that can get caught and cause strangulation. Look for a smooth hill that’s not too close to a pond or wooded area or too icy.
If you’re looking for a great hill for snow tubing in the U.P., try Gladstone Sports Park. Want to go sledding in the metro Detroit area? Try Civic Center Park in Madison Heights or Kensington Metropark in Milford.
- Get creative. Arts and crafts projects are a great indoor activity that you can do together. They also boost little ones’ self-esteem and skills. For example, this helps children like the ability to use coordinate both sides of the body at the same time, a useful skill for kids who are learning to tie their shoes, for example. In the spirit of the holidays, give these colorful candy circles or beautiful DIY snow globes a try for kids 5 and up!
- Make life delicious. Who doesn’t love sweets during the holidays? Work together in the kitchen to bake one of these Christmas cookie recipes or Toasted Almond and Cherry Scones and you’ll satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth in a healthy way.
- Give their break some meaning. You’re never too young to volunteer and the holiday season is the perfect time to start. Here are a few kid-friendly volunteer organizations in metro Detroit or mid-Michigan.
- Have photographic memories. Michigan is known for its year-round beauty, and this is the perfect time to capture it in a photo. Nurture your child’s inner photographer and head out for a day of photography in your neighborhood. You can even make a mini road trip out of it by piling in the car and heading further out. At the end of the day, print out everyone’s photos for a family art exhibit.
- Visit a museum. When the weather keeps you indoors, a museum is the perfect activity. Museums around the state offer fun, activities and learning for all ages. If you’re in the metro Detroit area, take a visit to the Detroit Institute of Arts. In Ann Arbor? Visit the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. Mid-Michigan families can check out the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Center in Portage.
- Stage a play. With a little imagination and creativity, your family room can turn into a stage, the great outdoors for a camping trip or an at-home theater.
Photo Credit: AnneCN
