With the winter recess looming at the end of the month, it’s best to make plans ahead of time to keep your children, tweens, and teens active during this downtime. The last thing you want is for them to spend their break lazing on the couch in front of screens. Below find fun ideas for you to consider.
1. Ice Bubbles
If you have leftover bubbles liquid from summer. make ice bubbles! Bear in mind, the temperature outside needs to be below freezing, but this is well worth the effort, so bundle everyone up for some magic. Just blow bubbles as usual and watch them instantly turn to ice balls in midair!
If you don’t have leftover bubble liquid, use the following recipe to make your own!
Measure 3 cups of water into a container.
Pour 1/2 cup of dish soap into the water and slowly stir until the soap is mixed in.
Stir slowly so foam or bubbles do not form
Measure 1 1/2 teaspoons of glycerin or 1/8 cup of corn syrup and add it to the container.
Stir the solution until it is mixed together.
2. Snowman Contest
Have a snowman contest! You’ve probably built these snow beings before, but this time, up your game by using pumpkin carving tools and other kitchen utensils to really spur on creativity. For added fun, add a peppermint swirl candy to your snowman’s checks and as the snow melts those checks will turn rosy pink.
3. Snow Lantern
Build a beautiful snow lantern using faux tea lights and candles that are crowding the store shelves right now. Once you have a few lights,stack snowballs into a pile or some kind of enclosed shape, then at twilight, put one or more of those battery-operated LED lights into the center of your structure. You’ve created a glowing beauty for your family and your neighborhood to enjoy on a dark winter’s night.
4. Snow Tug-of-War
Tug of War, Winter style! Grab a rope, divide into two teams dig in ankle-deep, and pull! You’ll be surprised how much the snow works to your advantage compared to playing this game in the summertime.
5. Frozen Great Falls
Take the family to visit the winter wonderland that is the Great Falls in Paterson. This gorgeous spot on the Passaic River is one of New Jersey’s National Historic Parks. Most people don’t think to visit in the winter, but the falls are glistening with ice this time of year and is a true treasure. Directions to the falls as well as ideas for other stops in the area can be found here: https://www.nps.gov/pagr/index.htm
6. Horseback Riding at Seaton Hackney
Go horseback riding at Seaton Hackney Stables in Morristown. What could be more iconic than a ride through a snowy landscape? Book your ride ahead of time and enjoy the beautiful Loantaka Trails. Riders of all skill levels will be led by an instructor. Call 973-633-3355 to book rides.
Keeping your children active during the holiday break is not only good for them, but you’ll be creating memories that they will cherish for years to come!