Yes! Winter Break is almost here. Now let’s take a moment and just breathe. Breathe in for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. And breathe out for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Your child has worked hard this semester, and deserves a break. But sometimes after a hectic or stressful period of life, like finals in some cases, it can be hard to calm a busy mind and truly enjoy downtime.
But don’t worry. These tips will help your student take advantage of winter break to rest, recover and mentally prepare for a successful Spring semester. Most importantly help your child stay at the top of their learning game during the holiday vacation.
Be sure to Dedicate some time to their self-care before return to campus. Take a walk around the neighborhood or try a new class at the gym. Read a book purely for enjoyment and spend some quality time as a family.
- Cook up a lesson. Ask your child for help in the kitchen to whip up some treats. Using measurements is good math practice, especially in fractions!
- Write thank-you notes. Whether your child is writing notes to gift-givers, teachers or neighbors, this is a great way to practice penmanship, spelling and grammar – plus, it teaches gratitude.
- Let kids help with online shopping. Need a last-minute gift? Help your child shop online with you to help them work on computer and research skills.
- Maintain reasonable bedtimes. With no school to wake up early for, it’s tempting to let your child become a night owl. A few days before school starts again, ease back into the regular schedule.
- Have a family game night. Chances are many of your family’s favorite card and board games reinforce skills like reading, counting and drawing. Gather your family to play games you don’t have time for on school nights.
- Make the most of car rides. Turn the drive to or from holiday gatherings into a fun opportunity to learn. You can look for license plates from different states, count the number of red or green cars you see or play license plate bingo!
If there are certain things you want your child or teen to do over break, such as ACT prep, organizing their room, etc. sit down with them and map out a schedule around other activities that work for them to do these things.
Adjust rules regarding technology use during winter break and holidays as needed, but keep some regulations in place if necessary.
The bottom line is that by planning ahead a bit, it can help you make the most of winter break and make it an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Happy Holidays!
By Gwen Marshall, Contributing Writer
Coming Events:
December 23-30 Winter Break Students Out
December 31-January 1 District Closed
January 2, 3 Students Out Winter Break and Professional Learning
