What Can I Do With My Child During Winter Break?
For many parents, winter break arrives with mixed emotions — excitement to slow down, but also the challenge of filling long days, managing routines, and keeping kids engaged. The structure that school provides suddenly disappears, and without it, many families find themselves juggling work, energy levels, and expectations. Yet with the right tools and mindset, winter break can become more than a survival period — it can be a chance to reconnect, recharge, and strengthen family bonds.
Balancing Rest and Structure
Children thrive on routine. Even when school pauses, a loose daily structure can help keep things predictable and calm. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI, 2023), maintaining routines like regular sleep schedules, meal times, and designated quiet hours can “help reduce anxiety and behavioral disruptions that often occur during long school breaks.” Predictability offers a sense of safety, especially for younger children or those with anxiety or neurodevelopmental needs.
That said, winter break shouldn’t feel rigid. The key is to balance structure with flexibility. Allowing time for rest and spontaneous play gives children the freedom to unwind from academic demands. Parents can create a simple “family rhythm” — perhaps a morning routine, an afternoon activity, and an evening wind-down — to bring calm without pressure.
Encouraging Learning in Everyday Moments
Learning doesn’t have to stop when school does. In fact, informal learning experiences during breaks can strengthen curiosity and problem-solving skills. Parallel Learning (2024) suggests that “reading together, cooking, or exploring nature can keep children intellectually engaged while promoting emotional connection.” Activities like family baking sessions or simple science experiments can integrate fun with cognitive development.
For older children and teens, goal-setting exercises can be powerful. Encourage them to write down intentions for the new year — not just academic goals, but personal ones, like improving friendships or learning a skill. This helps promote self-reflection and a sense of purpose, both of which are linked to higher motivation and self-esteem.
Supporting Emotional Well-Being
The holiday season can bring joy, but it can also bring overstimulation and emotional fatigue — for kids and parents alike. The Child-Focus organization (2023) notes that breaks can “reactivate family stressors,” especially when routines change or financial pressure increases. Simple mindfulness activities, such as deep breathing, gratitude journals, or “quiet corners,” can help children regulate their emotions when the house feels chaotic.
For parents, this time can also surface feelings of guilt or burnout. It’s important to remember that quality matters more than quantity. A 20-minute puzzle, walk, or check-in conversation can have as much impact as a day-long outing. NAMI (2023) emphasizes that “family time doesn’t have to be elaborate — consistent, meaningful connection helps build trust and emotional security.”
Community and Online Resources
When energy or inspiration runs low, there are plenty of resources to lean on:
Local libraries often host free events, reading challenges, and craft activities during winter break.
Community centers or YMCAs may offer low-cost camps or family recreation days.
Online educational platforms like PBS Kids or Scholastic offer interactive games and stories that combine entertainment and learning.
Parent support groups — both online and in person — can provide encouragement and creative ideas for managing the ups and downs of family life.
Get them outdoors! — Arranging fun activities such as snowtubing, a day at the museum, or a visit to their favorite indoor gaming place can be a great way to spend time together as a family and have the electronics be put aside for a few hours.
Project Appleseed (2023) reminds us that engaging families in small, shared activities — such as volunteering together or creating a “family service project” — can “build empathy, strengthen relationships, and teach children the value of giving.” These experiences can turn winter break into something memorable and meaningful, far beyond the holiday rush.
A Season for Connection
Ultimately, winter break doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. It’s okay if some days are unstructured, messy, or even boring. What matters most is the opportunity to reconnect — to slow down, listen, and spend time together in ways that remind everyone of what truly matters.
As parents, giving yourself grace is just as important as guiding your children. The goal isn’t to fill every minute; it’s to create space for rest, laughter, and reflection. When families approach winter break with balance, curiosity, and compassion, it can become less of a challenge — and more of a gift.
If you or your child struggles with routines and transitions, especially during school breaks, that might be a sign that something is wrong. Reach out today and schedule a consultation for a psychological evaluation.
Article Written by: Sabrina Kalontarov
