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10 Engaging and Educational Activities to Keep Kids Learning During the Holidays

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10 Engaging and Educational Activities to Keep Kids Learning During the Holidays

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Introduction

‍

Every holiday season brings an opportunity to spend quality time at home with loved ones. While some parents worry that time away from school might hinder their child's learning progress, most teachers emphasize the importance of rest and relaxation during breaks. Children need time to recharge and reset before diving back into their studies.

‍

However, this doesn't mean you can't incorporate fun and engaging activities that stimulate their minds and keep them learning throughout the holidays. Here are 10 simple yet effective ways to foster learning and growth during the festive season:

‍

1. Menu Math: Turning the Kitchen into a Hands-on Math Classroom

‍

Your kitchen can transform into a dynamic learning space where math comes alive. From adding and subtracting ingredients to measuring, converting units, and exploring fractions, the possibilities are endless.

‍

Menu planning and cost estimating: Involve your child in planning meals and estimating grocery costs. This teaches them budgeting and financial literacy skills.

Grocery store comparisons: Compare prices of different items at various grocery stores to practice arithmetic and critical thinking.

Reading and writing fractions: Baking and cooking often require precise measurements, providing opportunities to practice fractions and decimals.

Measuring and weighing ingredients: Encourage your child to use measuring cups, spoons, and scales to develop an understanding of measurements and proportions.

Converting units: Teach your child how to convert between different units, such as ounces to grams or cups to liters.

‍

Embrace the postcard style: Order photo cards that allow your child to write a personal message on the back.

Express gratitude through thank-you notes: Encourage your child to write thank-you notes to family, friends, and gift-givers, reinforcing gratitude and manners.

2. Handwritten Holiday Cards and Thank-You Notes: Reviving the Art of Penmanship

‍

In the age of digital communication, handwritten cards and thank-you notes are a valuable way to practice writing skills and cultivate gratitude.

‍

Ask open-ended questions: Inquire about their favorite characters, plot points, and themes.

Encourage critical thinking: Ask them to analyze the story's message, compare and contrast different versions, and express their opinions.

Keep it casual: Avoid turning the discussion into a formal book report; let it flow naturally and organically.

‍

3. Thought-provoking Discussions About Beloved Holiday Stories and Movies

‍

Scrabble: Enhance spelling, vocabulary, and literacy skills.

Yahtzee: Practice addition, multiplication, and probability.

Monopoly: Develop money management, arithmetic, and problem-solving strategies.

Memory, Go Fish, and other matching games: Strengthen memory and cognitive skills, particularly short-term item retrieval.

Many families have cherished holiday films and stories that become annual traditions. Engage your child in meaningful conversations about these beloved works.

‍

Research global holiday traditions: Discover how different countries celebrate the holidays, from unique rituals to festive cuisine.

Try new recipes, crafts, or songs: Bring these traditions to life by incorporating them into your family's celebrations.

Embrace cultural diversity: Promote cultural sensitivity and appreciation for the beauty of diverse traditions.

‍

4. Game Night: Unveiling the Educational Side of Family Fun

‍

Encourage conversations with relatives: Have your child interview family members about their favorite holiday memories and traditions.

Engage in storytelling sessions: Take turns sharing stories, encouraging each other to listen attentively and ask questions.

Practice public speaking: Encourage your child to participate in family gatherings or holiday events, providing opportunities to speak confidently.

Family game nights offer a blend of entertainment, learning, and social interaction. Choose games that promote problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork.

‍

‍

Homemade crafts: Create personalized holiday cards, ornaments, and decorations using various materials.

Musical creations: Learn festive tunes, compose original songs, or play instruments to enhance musical skills.

Artistic expression: Encourage drawing, painting, or sculpting to foster creativity and self-expression.

5. Exploring Diverse Traditions Around the World: A Journey of Cultural Discovery

‍

The world is a tapestry of rich holiday traditions and customs. Embark on a journey of cultural exploration with your child.

Nature photography: Capture the beauty of winter landscapes, plants, and animals through photography.

Nature collections: Gather natural objects like pinecones, leaves, or rocks to spark curiosity and scientific inquiry.

Spontaneous adventures: Bundle up and explore the outdoors, discovering new sights, sounds, and smells.

‍

‍

6. Building Strong Speaking and Listening Skills: Fostering Effective Communication

Volunteer as a family: Find local organizations that need assistance during the holidays and volunteer your time and efforts.

Donate to charities: Encourage your child to donate toys, clothes, or non-perishable food items to those in need.

Acts of kindness: Spread holiday cheer by performing simple acts of kindness, such as helping neighbors or expressing gratitude to those who serve the community.

‍

Active listening and clear articulation are essential life skills. Utilize holiday gatherings to foster these abilities.

‍

Reflect on the past year: Discuss their accomplishments, challenges, and areas for improvement.

Set goals for the new year: Encourage them to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals for the upcoming year.

Create a goal-setting ritual: Start a tradition of writing down goals together and revisiting them at the end of the year to track progress and set new goals.

‍

7. Unleashing Creativity: Nurturing Artistic Expression

‍

The holidays provide ample inspiration for creative exploration. Encourage your child to express themselves through various art forms.

‍

‍

8. Embracing the Great Outdoors: A Classroom of Nature's Wonders

‍

Nature offers a boundless learning environment. Encourage outdoor activities to explore, observe, and connect with the natural world.

‍

‍

9. Giving Back: The True Spirit of the Holidays

‍

The holiday season is an opportune time to instill empathy and a sense of community service.

‍

‍

10. Setting Goals Together: Embracing the New Year with Aspirations

‍

The new year brings a fresh start and an opportunity to set new goals and aspirations. Include your child in this process.

‍

Introduction

‍

Every holiday season brings an opportunity to spend quality time at home with loved ones. While some parents worry that time away from school might hinder their child's learning progress, most teachers emphasize the importance of rest and relaxation during breaks. Children need time to recharge and reset before diving back into their studies.

‍

However, this doesn't mean you can't incorporate fun and engaging activities that stimulate their minds and keep them learning throughout the holidays. Here are 10 simple yet effective ways to foster learning and growth during the festive season:

‍

1. Menu Math: Turning the Kitchen into a Hands-on Math Classroom

‍

Your kitchen can transform into a dynamic learning space where math comes alive. From adding and subtracting ingredients to measuring, converting units, and exploring fractions, the possibilities are endless.

‍

Menu planning and cost estimating: Involve your child in planning meals and estimating grocery costs. This teaches them budgeting and financial literacy skills.

Grocery store comparisons: Compare prices of different items at various grocery stores to practice arithmetic and critical thinking.

Reading and writing fractions: Baking and cooking often require precise measurements, providing opportunities to practice fractions and decimals.

Measuring and weighing ingredients: Encourage your child to use measuring cups, spoons, and scales to develop an understanding of measurements and proportions.

Converting units: Teach your child how to convert between different units, such as ounces to grams or cups to liters.

‍

Embrace the postcard style: Order photo cards that allow your child to write a personal message on the back.

Express gratitude through thank-you notes: Encourage your child to write thank-you notes to family, friends, and gift-givers, reinforcing gratitude and manners.

2. Handwritten Holiday Cards and Thank-You Notes: Reviving the Art of Penmanship

‍

In the age of digital communication, handwritten cards and thank-you notes are a valuable way to practice writing skills and cultivate gratitude.

‍

Ask open-ended questions: Inquire about their favorite characters, plot points, and themes.

Encourage critical thinking: Ask them to analyze the story's message, compare and contrast different versions, and express their opinions.

Keep it casual: Avoid turning the discussion into a formal book report; let it flow naturally and organically.

‍

3. Thought-provoking Discussions About Beloved Holiday Stories and Movies

‍

Scrabble: Enhance spelling, vocabulary, and literacy skills.

Yahtzee: Practice addition, multiplication, and probability.

Monopoly: Develop money management, arithmetic, and problem-solving strategies.

Memory, Go Fish, and other matching games: Strengthen memory and cognitive skills, particularly short-term item retrieval.

Many families have cherished holiday films and stories that become annual traditions. Engage your child in meaningful conversations about these beloved works.

‍

Research global holiday traditions: Discover how different countries celebrate the holidays, from unique rituals to festive cuisine.

Try new recipes, crafts, or songs: Bring these traditions to life by incorporating them into your family's celebrations.

Embrace cultural diversity: Promote cultural sensitivity and appreciation for the beauty of diverse traditions.

‍

4. Game Night: Unveiling the Educational Side of Family Fun

‍

Encourage conversations with relatives: Have your child interview family members about their favorite holiday memories and traditions.

Engage in storytelling sessions: Take turns sharing stories, encouraging each other to listen attentively and ask questions.

Practice public speaking: Encourage your child to participate in family gatherings or holiday events, providing opportunities to speak confidently.

Family game nights offer a blend of entertainment, learning, and social interaction. Choose games that promote problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork.

‍

‍

Homemade crafts: Create personalized holiday cards, ornaments, and decorations using various materials.

Musical creations: Learn festive tunes, compose original songs, or play instruments to enhance musical skills.

Artistic expression: Encourage drawing, painting, or sculpting to foster creativity and self-expression.

5. Exploring Diverse Traditions Around the World: A Journey of Cultural Discovery

‍

The world is a tapestry of rich holiday traditions and customs. Embark on a journey of cultural exploration with your child.

Nature photography: Capture the beauty of winter landscapes, plants, and animals through photography.

Nature collections: Gather natural objects like pinecones, leaves, or rocks to spark curiosity and scientific inquiry.

Spontaneous adventures: Bundle up and explore the outdoors, discovering new sights, sounds, and smells.

‍

‍

6. Building Strong Speaking and Listening Skills: Fostering Effective Communication

Volunteer as a family: Find local organizations that need assistance during the holidays and volunteer your time and efforts.

Donate to charities: Encourage your child to donate toys, clothes, or non-perishable food items to those in need.

Acts of kindness: Spread holiday cheer by performing simple acts of kindness, such as helping neighbors or expressing gratitude to those who serve the community.

‍

Active listening and clear articulation are essential life skills. Utilize holiday gatherings to foster these abilities.

‍

Reflect on the past year: Discuss their accomplishments, challenges, and areas for improvement.

Set goals for the new year: Encourage them to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals for the upcoming year.

Create a goal-setting ritual: Start a tradition of writing down goals together and revisiting them at the end of the year to track progress and set new goals.

‍

7. Unleashing Creativity: Nurturing Artistic Expression

‍

The holidays provide ample inspiration for creative exploration. Encourage your child to express themselves through various art forms.

‍

‍

8. Embracing the Great Outdoors: A Classroom of Nature's Wonders

‍

Nature offers a boundless learning environment. Encourage outdoor activities to explore, observe, and connect with the natural world.

‍

‍

9. Giving Back: The True Spirit of the Holidays

‍

The holiday season is an opportune time to instill empathy and a sense of community service.

‍

‍

10. Setting Goals Together: Embracing the New Year with Aspirations

‍

The new year brings a fresh start and an opportunity to set new goals and aspirations. Include your child in this process.

‍

The professionals you need, the flexibility you want

With live-online services we are able to find related service professionals that will not compete against your ability to hire individuals in-district. We can reach IEP and 504 students from multiple sites, and offer flexible scheduling and pricing options.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Engaging and Educational Activities to Keep Kids Learning During the Holidays

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Every holiday season we are given the opportunity to embrace more quality time at home. Some parents worry that time away from school might derail their child's learning progress. While you might be tempted to bring out the workbooks and learning apps, most teachers feel strongly about students resting and not doing work that mirrors that of a classroom during breaks.

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Elizabeth Sautter - make social & emotional learning stick

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Holiday Kitchen Activities: Nurturing Executive Functioning in Children — Elizabeth Sautter - make social & emotional learning stick

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Discover how involving your child in holiday kitchen activities goes beyond cooking to foster essential executive functioning skills. Explore creative ways to enhance their cognitive growth while preparing for the festive season. Engage in a culinary journey that enriches both heart and mind during

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SMART Reading Tips for the Holidays

Winter break is right around the corner, and holidays can get pretty hectic! Routines can fly out the window with celebrations, travel and out-of-town guests. As your family prepares for the holidays, use these tips for keeping kids engaged in learning and reading over winter break.

1. Read for fun! Whether your child is in the mood for holiday stories or the newest installment from a favorite series, winter break provides the perfect opportunity to set aside school books and read for fun. Make time for bedtime stories to create the routine and enjoy books on a daily basis.

2. Stock up on books at the local library. Help your child pick out books they're interested in reading over the winter break. Libraries may also have fun, free holiday activities throughout the break.

3. Make the most of travel time. Turn travel time to or from a holiday get-together into an opportunity to practice reading. You can look for license plates from different states, try to find the alphabet on the license plates, or count the number of red (or white or green) cars you see. Read street signs and billboards you see along the way.

4. Create a new tradition. A little predictability is comforting for kids. Starting a special Winter Break Story Time can be a new tradition that links reading with happy memories. Hot cocoa and your favorite stories will have the whole family feeling comfy and cozy, while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Remember, you don't have to be an expert to help your child with reading. By simply interacting with children around books, you can show them that books are important and worthy of our attention.

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Winter break is right around the corner, and holidays can get pretty hectic! Routines can fly out the window with celebrations, travel and out-of-town guests. As your family prepares for the holidays, use these tips for keeping kids engaged in learning and reading over winter break. Read for fun!

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7 Ways to Make Math Merry Over Winter Break - City Creek Press, Inc.

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Worried about your child slipping behind in math during winter break? Here are seven ideas to help them retain math learning.

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Need something new to read? Click the link below to check out books using Sora. https://soraapp.com/library/newtoncsga

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Title I Parent and Family Engagement Canvas Page 

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Title I Parent and Family Engagement Canvas Page 

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Your input is invaluable in helping us enhance and tailor our support of your child's learning journey.

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Check out this months Parents Make the Difference Article!

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More information coming soon!

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Check out these websites so you can practice math and reading at home!

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Check out these educational websites to practice math and reading at home!