We know how it can be, parents. The kids look forward to time off school during Christmas break. But after a couple of days they’ve had enough, and start to get restless. We’ve gathered some tips and ideas to help keep the kids busy and productive. Share yours in the comments!
1. Crafts with a Use
Coloring in a coloring or activity book may grow old after a while. There are crafts that can serve a secondary useful purpose… Color your own gift wrap! Sure, Christmas has passed, but stock up for next year, or make patterns suitable for birthdays. ‘End Rolls’ of newsprint are available in limited supply at The Courier (701 W. Sandusky St., Findlay 8am-5pm Monday-Friday).
Another idea is a snowman craft that turns into a game!
2. Indoor Obstacle Courses & Scavenger Hunts
The obstacles don’t have to be physical. Incorporate learning into the game with hands-on activities, math problems, puzzles, etc. Maybe incorporate a string maze or pom-pom race into it.
3. Service Projects
Make something that can be donated to those in need. There are tons of kid-friendly & no-sew scarf ideas online, such as this one and this one. Chopin Hall, Hope House, The City Mission, and area nursing homes are some ideas of drop-off locations. Also think of people who may be alone, or away from loved ones during the holidays such as the elderly and military. Handmade cards are another great way to pass the time and lift someone’s spirits!
4. Make puppets and put on your own play
Grab whatever craft supplies are lying around, and get creative! Give the puppets names and personalities, and put on a show! Use a phone or tablet to record it, and watch it together!
5. Read a book
There’s nothing like reading a REAL book. Read out loud to the kids, have them read to you or themselves, out loud, or silently. Have fun and try using different voices for different characters. Act it out!
Create a craft based on a book you read together. One idea is to make your own illustrations to go along with a favorite book! For inspiration, visit the Mazza Museum!
6. Easy Baking Projects
Teach the kids about baking with these simple and quick cookie ideas. If you make more than your family can eat, maybe package them up and donate them to a nursing home or local shelter (see #3 above). Put an assortment of homemade cookies in a tin – decorate it, and have fun!
7. Visit the Children’s Museum
Check out their website and Facebook page for more information. A variety of memberships are available, and special activities are going on all the time!
8. Check out Social Findlay
We have a ‘Family Friendly‘ category on our calendar that shows a list of local events. Check back regularly for updates!
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