How to Keep Kids on a Fun and Structured Routine During Holiday Break

Hey, parents! Are you trying to figure out how to keep your kids on a regular schedule during the holidays but still let them have some fun late-night activities? You're in the right place! This post will share tips on how to mix holiday fun with everyday routines, so everyone has a great time and stays on track.

1. Set Up Holiday Routines

• Talk About the Plan: A few days before the break, chat with your kids about keeping a daily schedule. It’s like their school routine but with a bit of a holiday twist. For example, if bedtime is usually at 8 PM, you might let them stay up until 9:30 PM during their break.
• Keep It Flexible: Have a basic plan for each day that includes time for both fun activities and regular daily tasks.

2. Plan Fun Learning Activities

 

• Crafts and Baking: Schedule some craft time or baking sessions when they would usually play. Making holiday cookies or Christmas decorations is perfect for this!
• Get Outside: Even if it’s chilly, try to spend a little time outside each day at the usual time. A quick walk or a bit of play in the yard can do wonders.

3. Mix Learning with Fun

• Holiday Reading Time: Share some holiday-themed books together. This keeps up with their reading and gets them into the festive spirit.
• Educational Games: Play some educational games that are fun and help them learn something new. You can find great games online that fit the holiday theme.

4. Stick to Regular Mealtimes

• Eat at Usual Times: Try to have meals at the same times as usual. This helps keep the day structured.
• Special Treats: Add some holiday treats to the meals to make them festive and special.

5. Choose Special Nights for Staying Up Late

• Plan for Big Nights: Decide on special nights, like Christmas Eve, when staying up late is part of the fun. This makes those late nights extra special and not just another regular night.
• Quiet Time Before Bed: After a late night, wind down with something calm like watching a family movie or reading a book together. This helps everyone settle down before bed.

 

6. Talk and Adjust

• Make Plans Together: Let your kids give ideas for what they want to do during the break. They’ll be more likely to follow a schedule if they help make it.
• Be Ready to Change: Sometimes, you might need to tweak your plans based on how everyone is feeling. If a late night makes everyone grumpy the next day, maybe plan a quieter day with an earlier bedtime.

7. End the Day with a Chat

• Talk About the Day: At dinner or before bed, talk about what everyone enjoyed most that day. It’s a great way for everyone to remember the fun they had and the things they learned.

 

Balancing fun and structure during the holiday break can make your Christmas season both joyful and calm. By planning ahead and being willing to adjust, you can make sure your kids enjoy their break without getting too off track. When school starts again, they’ll be ready to go!

 Got any great tips for keeping holiday routines fun and organized? Share them in the comments below! And if you found these tips helpful, don’t forget to share this post with other parents.

 

Enjoy and have a happy New Year!!!