Homeschoolers obviously have the option of when to take off a school day or two, but I think most of us do take off at least a week for Christmas. I think it's also safe to say that when you homeschool, you don't totally abandon the idea of learning on any off day. If you think about it, there are many fun and engaging ways to keep the minds of your kids buzzing away even on Christmas.
The one thing we did right this year was buying a lot of interactive types of toys. Things that force our kids to problem solve and read directions. Learning to interpret and follow instructions that come with a Lego kit for example, not only provide a fun challenge, but give our 5 and 6 year old children a huge sense of accomplishment when they've managed to complete the kit.
We also purchased more puzzles than I can count, many came in those heavy puzzle books. Not something I'm a huge fan of, but it does keep them busy and I have to think they provide an excellent mental workout for a child. The only thing that I don't exactly like about these books is that once you've assembled the puzzles, they're a bit hard to keep in place. Closing and reopening the books often invites the completed puzzles to spill out of the book and onto the floor. Oh, I've had a few headaches with these, but the kids like them... so, I'm learning to live with my frustrations.
Our kids mainly received books, puzzles, kits of various kinds to assemble, and art supplies. Of course we bought a few dolls for our daughter too, so she could play mommy, doctor or big sister. ; )
Other things you can do to keep their brains busy:
- Build a gingerbread house together... we'll be doing this tomorrow
- Bake cookies, a pie, a cake, or some other sweet treat together... that is, if you're not already overly bombarded with deserts, in which case you might opt to make a casserole together.
- Organize their rooms together. If they've received a lot of new toys, help them decide where in their rooms or play area each toy will be kept when not in play.
- Make a New Year's Resolution list with each of your kids. The idea might be new to them, but encourage them to think about realistic personal and academic goals they'd like to achieve in the coming year. Next Christmas review the list together and see how they did!
- Go on a nature walk together, if it's not too cold. Gather things to make a winter wreath, if you're not buried in snow!
- Build a bird feeder together and start feeding your neighborhood feathered friends.
- Read, read, read! Read books they were given for Christmas, books from the library, or books you already have.
I'm sure you'll have some wonderful ideas of your own too. If so, feel free to comment so my readers can benefit!
Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas surrounded by family and friends. Here's to a blessed and prosperous New Year!
~Wendy
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