The holiday season brings lots of fun with friends and family, but after all the seasonal fun has passed, you may wonder what to do with the kids for their winter break. Even though boredom is good for kids and encourages creativity, you may want to have a few options on hand to give yourself a break. These ideas will help you make the most of your kid’s winter break ... and give you a chance to make a few memories along the way.
1. Visit your local library
Take the kids on a trip to your local library. This is a great way to encourage them to read over the break and get them out of the house for the afternoon. Check our Macaroni KID event calendar for library events!
Eunice Public Library and Sunset Community Library host weekly story hour on Wednesdays.
2. Have a holiday movie marathon
Spend some time bingeing on all your favorite holiday movies. Let the family pick a movie, grab some snacks, and cozy up.
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3. Host a playdate
Playdates over winter break will allow your kids to see their friends and give you a break ... win-win!
4. Get in the kitchen
Growing up, one of my favorite things was baking with my mother. Not only is it fun, but it is also an excellent way to pass on family recipes and traditions. If you need some ideas check out our partnering national site, MacaroniKID EATS.
Another idea if baking isn't your thing, check the local stores for markdowns on the holiday decorating kits! After Christmas big chains mark down all of their Gingerbread house and cookie decorating sets, usually at half the price. This is a good way to take advantage of these discounted prices and extend the holiday fun a little longer.
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5. Make appointments
This might not be considered fun, but winter break is a good time to take care of any necessary appointments, from physicals to the orthodontist. Using this time now means less time off from school and work later.
6. Get outside
Bundle up, if you need to, and head to a local park or playground. Nothing’s better than a little fresh air and exercise from playing outside, even if it's chilly!
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7. Donate or volunteer at a local shelter
Donating old toys and clothes to charity helps teach your kids to appreciate what they have. It also helps make room for any new holiday gifts they may receive.
The St. Landry Chamber of Commerce has partnered with many local non-profits that are hosting holiday drives to help replenish much-needed items.
You can also find out if any local shelters or other nonprofits could use a helping hand!
8. Go to the movies!
An afternoon matinee at the local cinema is a great way to enjoy a new movie release.
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I hope these ideas keep your kids engaged and make lasting memories during their winter break!
Ariel Chamberlain is the publisher of Macaroni KID Gulfport-Biloxi, Miss.
