The winter holiday is a fantastic time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones. However, when your children are home for two weeks, sometimes their energy can leave everyone feeling a little overwhelmed. It’s completely normal for children to begin feeling restless, or even bored, but luckily there are a myriad of ways to keep them amused throughout the Christmas holiday.
Even if the holiday festivities have already eaten into your budget, that doesn’t mean you still can’t find entertaining and cost-friendly activities. Take a look at these budget-friendly solutions that can help keep your children entertained without hurting your wallet.
1. Outdoor Winter Activities:
Depending on the weather, consider fun outdoor activities such as sledding or ice skating. Your city may offer free ice skating and skate rentals, or perhaps there’s a snow-covered hill nearby perfect for sledding. Alternatively, you can utilise your current surroundings; have them play games in the yard or ride their new bikes or hoverboards.
2. Host a Playdate:
Consider inviting one of your children’s friends over. Plan activities they can engage in, such as watching movies, playing video games, or playing with their favorite toys. All you need is a pizza and some snacks to keep them satisfied.
3. Engage Them in Crafts:
There’s a plethora of simple yet engaging crafts suited for all ages. Using materials found around your home, like markers, construction paper, scrap wood, or paint, children can engage in DIY ornament creations or even paint picture frames.
4. Board Games:
Consider setting up a family game night. Board games are a perfect and exciting way to pass the time.
5. DIY Games:
This encourages children to tap into their creativity. A favorite DIY game suggestion involves Christmas stickers, leftover festive candy, and memory recall. Just make sure to keep the game budget-friendly!
6. Movie and Desserts Night:
Compile a list of beloved classic and new holiday movies and spend a few evenings watching them, accompanied by a dessert and popcorn.
7. Volunteering:
The holidays offer an excellent opportunity to teach your children about giving back to the community. Consider planning a day to volunteer at a local food pantry or help pack food for children overseas through an organization like Feed My Starving Children.
8. Bedroom Makeover:
Engage your child in a fun bedroom makeover project. This could also serve as an excellent opportunity to declutter and possibly find items for donation.
9. Scavenger Hunt:
Consider planning a local scavenger hunt. There are numerous apps available that can help you plan a family treasure hunt adventure.
10. Enjoy Discounted Local Attractions:
Several local attractions may offer discounted admission over the holidays. If your budget permits, this is an exciting and affordable outing option for your children.
In summary, finding ways to keep your children engaged over their Christmas break doesn’t have to strain your budget. Select the activities that best suit your family’s needs. Remember, the holiday break provides a crucial time for rest and creating enduring memories together.
