It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but in all honesty, it may be difficult to let your heart be light when everyone is home for the holidays and you’re navigating some of the stresses of the season. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has some tips to keep your troubles out of sight and make the most of your children’s school break.
Take some time to play together. Your children are used to very structured days at school, where practically every minute is carefully plotted out. Allow your child to have plenty of unstructured time. Challenge them to use their imagination. Learn something new together. If the weather isn’t too frightful, take some walks together, head to a playground or basketball court. If you’re indoors, grab some board games, or craft supplies. And a dance party is never a bad idea.
Read together. Let your children check out a book series from the library, and you can take turns reading a chapter out loud to one another. This is also a great time to let them explore books on topics they may be interested in that they aren’t learning at school.
Spend time doing everyday activities together. Ask your child to help you find a new recipe, go grocery shopping together and prepare the meal. Turn simple tasks (such as folding laundry or tidying up around the house) into a game. The first one to finish is the winner!
Give Back. Volunteering is a meaningful way to help your child learn the importance of philanthropy and develop empathy for others.
To create a sense of normalcy during school breaks, try to maintain your child’s most significant daily routines. Keep bedtime and wake time consistent with school days. This will help your child get back to their normal routine when the break is over. Set and follow screen-time limits. It’s common to allow more screen-time during school breaks, but it’s important to prioritize daily activities, such as sleep, mealtimes, physical activity, and interacting with family and friends.
Keep cool. Children learn how to handle stressful situations by observing how their families—and other adults around them—deal with stress. Holiday breaks are sure to give you some opportunities to model healthy coping skills.
Practice deep breathing. Take deep-belly breaths, in through your nose and out through your mouth.
Get active. Physical activity is a proven stress reducer, and it can be fun! Take a family bike ride or go to the park.
Practice gratitude. Showing thanks and appreciation toward others not only helps us feel happier, but it can also be beneficial to our physical wellness.
Make a concerted effort to spend quality time with your children during the break, and it will be the hap-happiest season of all!