I can’t believe Christmas is just around the corner. What’s quicker than Christmas is winter break when the kids are out of school for a couple of weeks.
I’m actually looking forward to my kids being out and while they may get out of routine for a brief moment, the break will serve them well. They’ll get back into their normal routine again when school starts back but now is the time for Christmas fun and a bit of relaxation.
There are plenty of activities for your kids to embrace and it doesn’t always have to come around to sending them to a camp. (Although if you’re looking for a good winter camp the YMCA and Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission can help you here!)
Bake Cookies
If you’re looking for a pre-Christmas activity, baking cookies is a fun and messy activity. There’s also plenty of learning and following directions as well. Whether you go for the store bought package or make it all the way from scratch, either way your kids will remember.
Take another step with baking cookies and bake for neighbors, friends and family or let your kids pick someone they’d enjoy delivering cookies to. It could be the local police department, an assisted living or retirement home or a nonprofit with a cause close to home. Just make sure as you’re baking them that you write down ingredients in case of allergies people may have.
Take a Hike
Go for a nature walk or hike at a local park nearby. You can check out Harbison State Forest or Saluda Shoals trails which both offer easy and easier options. Saluda Shoals also has paved trails if bringing a stroller or cart.
You can also check out the Palmetto Trail with passages all across the state ranging from easy to difficult depending on your child and his or her ability or age. The Congaree National Park in Columbia is another popular option but there are plenty of other state parks and trails to check out. Go outside and let nature lead the way!
Donate Old Toys
This is perfect for after Christmas after new presents are unwrapped. Give your kids a trash bag or box and have them go through their room and find toys or clothes to give away.
It’s important to talk with them about what is appropriate to give away. For instance, if something needs cleaning up or fixed up, let them work on making the toys appropriate to give away. Help them understand that donating to others is not about giving away junk.
If clothes need washing, let them wash clothes or assist them if a bit too young. Prepare their hearts for serving by allowing them to give away items to others. And while they’re going through their items, it’s a perfect time for you to lead the way and do the same.
Organize the Junk Drawer(s)
Ok, this may seem boring but it’s a good way to clean out the old or just rearrange and make it easier to find batteries or pens when you’re looking for it. This is a great way to sort items that are alike and you can take a trip to the dollar store for some small trays or bins to keep it organized.
This may take a brief time period or it can take longer depending on the state of the junk drawer!
Make a Fort
Nothing beats making a fort and this is perfect for boredom busters or rainy days. Make it as small or big as your kids can muster. Then after the fort is built make some popcorn and have watch a Christmas movie, play a game or make some Christmas pictures to deliver to the local nursing home.
