It's the middle of winter, what can I do with my kids?
Now is the time to start a really long book! If you have young kids that are early readers, show them how much you like to read. Go back to your childhood favorites and read aloud to them. They may be dated, but what captured your imagination will likely capture theirs. In our team we remember Nancy Drew, The Happy Hollisters, and almost any collection of scary stories. Try to find them at your library or on ebay (we are assuming you didn't keep them all)!
The Blue Lake take on it:
Tell your child about your own childhood experiences with reading. Did you stay up late (in violation of your bedtime, with a flashlight) just to finish a chapter? Your kids will be thrilled by these details. Here are some excellent tips for reading aloud And this school district in the Smoky Mountains has compiled some seasonal lists of entertaining activities, by season, which we thought was well done.
The hustle and bustle of the holidays can leave all of us, especially young children, feeling stressed, overtired and even a little stir crazy. The winter season is an important time to remember the value in outdoor play. The simple change of scenery can help channel energy in children. Spending time outdoors also allows your child time to practice important physical skills and exercise and strengthen muscles. David Elkind, professor at Tufts University, says, “Children’s outdoor play is not a luxury. It is critical in children’s ability to learn about the world, others, and themselves.”
