This winter break is here and I have been thinking a lot about how I want to spend this time. Since I have added the role of full-time teacher to my resume it has been hard for me to remember to carve out time to just 'be', with no curriculum goals, and enjoy time with the kids. The problem is that I also don't want to give the kids the power to pick what we do, at least not every time, because there are only so many makeovers from a four year-old, or rounds of monopoly with a nine year-old, I can endure with a smile on my face.
In preparation for the winter break I have written out a list of options to help:
- make sure we don't get stuck in the same activities day after day
- me be present in our time together because there will always be distractions from home or work
- the kids continue the game independently, even when it's time for me to step away
xxx Ideas for Winter Break
- Take a winter walk in a new neighborhood or park
- Make snow angels
- Paint a picture with found objects instead of brushes (bits of your wreath, leftover ribbon, wine cork, buttons, toy car, etc)
- Have a family sleepover - complete with snacks and late night movies
- Make cinnamon ornaments and give them as gifts, or thread onto twine and hang like a garland
- Play hotel (and don't forget to order room service!)
- Teach your child(ren) to cook something they like to eat
- Go (indoor) camping, complete with a tent, pretend campfire, stories and s'mores
- Try out a new class together - In Real Life or On Demand
- Make a fort, complete with cozy pillows and blankets, and snuggle up to read some stories together
- Throw a family New Year's Eve party
- Make peanut butter bird feeders and place in your yard or local park
- Go ice skating or sledding
- Make your own play dough - like this Gingerbread Playdough - or experiment with a new scent or color
- Get creative in the kitchen with one of these fun recipes for sensory play
- Go to the Drive-In Movies
- Visit an aquarium or museum (virtually) in Chicago or any city you want!
- Make a book together about a favorite trip, activity or anything that comes to mind
- Create your own game
- Paint your windows with washable paint
