Here are a few ways to keep boredom at bay and kids engaged over the holiday break from school!
Holiday Break Boredom Busters
Say that 10 times fast! It's winter break and despite all of the holiday fun you've been having, the kids aren't thrilled to be watching Frosty…again. Here are a few ways to keep boredom at bay and kids engaged over the holiday break from school!
- Reading Tic-Tac-Toe - [download file] - Keep those minds sharp and teachers happy with a daily reading incentive. Once a day the kids will choose a square, complete the reading activity, and cross it off. Make it fun by using stickers to mark the board! When the little ones get 3 in a row, reward them with something like a hot chocolate date (extra marshmallows, please!) or a 15 minute bedtime pass.
- Go Outside - I know what you're thinking. She's crazy. It's cold. They'll only complain. But, hear me out. Kids need to play and they especially need to play outside. Take advantage of Dayton's many metroparks that have nature play areas. Kids love to explore, but probably don't have much of a chance to do that in the winter. Bundle up and let their curiosity take over! My favorite place to let little minds wander is White Oak Camp located within Hills and Dales Metropark. Constructed just for kids, there is a playground adjacent to the free play nature area. Take a hot cup o' joe and watch the kids take to nature.
- Kid Fit Challenge - [download file] - Always up for proving just how skilled they are, kids love a good challenge. What better than to challenge them with a bit of exercise in an entertaining way. Have some friendly sibling competition and try my 1 minute challenges; let kids record their numbers. I bet they'll even ask you if they can do it again to try and beat their previous record!
- Make Snow Ice Cream - Or Sneam as I call it! If Dayton is unfortunate or lucky enough to get a blanket of white over break, send the kids out for a giant bowl of snow to make this tasty winter treat. This recipe from livingonadime.com is simple enough for kids and you probably already have the ingredients on hand. Best to give it a try after a large accumulation so as to ensure fresh, clean Sneam!
- Riverscape Outdoor Ice-Skating—Being out of school means that it's time for some weekday perks! Outdoor ice-skating is #1 on my to-do list of activities. Glide down to Riverscape for a spin on the ice. (Skate rental available.) Catch their extended hours through New Year's Day.
First up on my list (second to reading, says the teacher in me!) is ice-skating! Enjoy creating memories and have some family fun this season.
Originally published on Dayton Local December 26, 2013.
