How to Keep Kids Engaged During the Holiday Break

The holiday season is a joyful time, full of celebrations, family gatherings, and special traditions. But for parents of young children, the holiday break can sometimes mean restless days and disrupted routines. At Tomlin Prep Academy, we know how important it is to keep children engaged, active, and learning—even during time off from school.

Here are practical tips and fun activities to help children stay stimulated, creative, and happy throughout the holiday season.

1. Keep a Flexible Routine

Even during the holidays, children benefit from some structure. Try to maintain:

• Regular meal and snack times

• Consistent nap or rest periods

• Short learning or play sessions throughout the day

A flexible routine helps children feel secure while giving parents room to enjoy holiday activities too.

2. Encourage Creative Play

Creativity thrives during the holidays! Provide opportunities for:

• Arts & crafts: Holiday-themed decorations, DIY cards, or ornaments

• Sensory play: Use snow (real or fake), rice, or festive-themed sensory bins

• Dress-up and imaginative play: Encourage kids to role-play holiday stories or favorite characters

Creative play builds fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and self-expression.

3. Include Learning in Fun Ways

Even on break, children can engage in light learning without feeling like “school.”

• Reading together: Holiday-themed storybooks or classic tales

• Counting and sorting games: Use ornaments, candy canes, or small toys

• Simple science experiments: For example, watching ice melt or making “snow” with baking soda and water

These activities keep young minds curious and sharp.

4. Get Active Indoors or Outdoors

Physical activity helps children burn energy, build strength, and develop coordination.

• Outdoor play: Sledding, building snowmen, or nature walks

• Indoor options: Dance parties, obstacle courses, or movement games

Even 15–20 minutes at a time can make a difference for both mood and focus.

5. Involve Children in Holiday Preparations

Children love helping with festive activities. Involve them in ways that are safe and age-appropriate:

• Decorating the home

• Wrapping gifts with assistance

• Helping prepare simple holiday snacks

This encourages responsibility, teamwork, and pride in contributing.

6. Maintain Social Connections

The holidays are perfect for fostering social skills. Encourage:

• Virtual calls or visits with relatives

• Playdates with friends (if schedules allow)

• Collaborative holiday crafts or games

These interactions build communication skills and help children feel connected.

7. Balance Screen Time

While some screen time is okay, it’s important to balance it with active, creative, and hands-on play. Choose educational shows or interactive apps that reinforce learning and complement holiday activities.

Enjoy the Season Together

The holiday break is a wonderful opportunity to bond with your child while keeping them engaged and learning. By offering a mix of routine, creativity, movement, and fun, children can enjoy the season while still developing important skills.

At Tomlin Prep Academy, we understand how important it is to support families year-round. We encourage parents to keep learning playful and joyful—even during the holidays!

📞 Looking for a nurturing environment where your child can thrive every day, all year long?Schedule a tour today: https://www.tomlinacademy.net/schedule-a-tour📞 816-785-7878