Take a Real Break
Robert Nickell
You don’t have to plan a vacation this winter break. As a
father of six kids ranging in ages from 7 months to 25 years old, I’ve learned
a thing or two about enjoying winter break in the comfort of your own home – without catching cabin fever.
Follow my tips and suggestions for a fun, engaging break
that will actually feel like a break!
Explore Your
Backyard: Often times there’s plenty of fun to be had right in your own
backyard. Maybe there’s a park you’ve never been to, a new trail to hike or
even a new bike path to explore. As long as you and your child are dressed
appropriately, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy getting out and about.
Browse the Internet or the phone book to see if there are any interesting and kid-friendly
activities going on within your community; chances are there’s plenty to do and
it won’t even break the bank! Look into aquariums, museums, theater,
ice-skating rinks, and recreation centers. There’s plenty of fun to be had
right outside your own door, so there’s no need to travel too far in the name
of some wholesome, good-spirited fun.
Veg Out: What’s a
break without a little downtime? Enjoy sleeping in, eating breakfast in your
pajamas and lounging in front of the fire. Read your favorite holiday storybook
with your child or watch a good, age-appropriate holiday film. Dust off those
old board games and teach your child your old favorite game. Playing cards and
board games teaches kids to be thoughtful and intelligent- plus, they are just
plain fun! Spend time together enjoying
the peaceful bliss that is winter break – after all, you work hard all year
long.
Get Crafty: Arts
and crafts have always been a favorite past time for my kids. There’s plenty of
exciting craft kits available at stores throughout the country. Or, you can go
“old-school” with a kid’s table complete with all the supplies for your child
to get a little messy – or a lot messy! Just make sure you designate a craft
area in a room with washable surfaces or put some newspapers down to cover the
floor in that area. You might even encourage your child to make a special gift
for each person they love this holiday season; the act of giving is important
in raising responsible, caring individuals. Remember, when in doubt, just be
creative – and don’t be afraid to get a bit of glitter in your hair.
Get Outside: If
you live in a place with snow on the ground, there are plenty of fun activities
you and your child can engage in – depending on their age. Make snow angels, a
snowman, go sledding, go cross-country skiing on a golf course, have a snowball
fight, or head up to the slopes and let your child take a ski lesson. If you
live in a location where a winter wonderland is a little less accessible, it’s
still important to get outside; taking the dog for a walk or teaching your
child to ride a bike. Learn a new sport together or roam the yard for
interesting and exciting new bug specimens.
When you get down to it, it’s not about where you go or what
you do, but spending time with your children and loved ones. Enjoy the gift
that is winter break as it only comes once a year; give thanks for the time you
get to spend with your child – tis the season after all.
Happy Holidays!
Sincerely,
Mr. Daddy