Keeping the Magic Alive: Fun and Easy Ways to Entertain Your Kids This Winter Break

Keeping the Magic Alive: Fun and Easy Ways to Entertain Your Kids This Winter Break

By Brooke Abbott Abron

Winter break is here, and with it comes all the joy, magic, and chaos of the holiday season! While the twinkling lights and festive moments make this time of year so special, those long days at home can sometimes leave us wondering, What do we do next? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! 

Whether you’re juggling toddlers, school-age kiddos, or a mix of both, there are so many fun, budget-friendly, and screen-free activities to keep little hands busy and their imaginations running wild. Let’s embrace the season together and turn winter break into a time of creativity, connection, and memory-making your whole family will cherish!

1. DIY Holiday Crafts for Kids

There’s nothing like some holiday crafting to keep the kiddos entertained—and your home looking festive. Gather supplies like construction paper, glue, scissors, markers, and fun extras like glitter or pom-poms. Try these simple ideas:

• Paper Snowflakes: Fold and cut paper into intricate patterns (great for fine motor skills!).
• Handprint Wreaths: Trace your child’s hand on green paper, cut it out multiple times, and glue the cutouts into a wreath shape.
• DIY Ornaments: Use salt dough or store-bought kits to create ornaments that will make your tree extra special.

Crafting not only keeps little hands busy but also creates keepsakes you’ll cherish for years.

2. Indoor Activities for Kids in Winter

When the weather outside isn’t so inviting, turn your home into a cozy activity zone.

• Scavenger Hunt: Create a themed scavenger hunt around the house with clues leading to a holiday surprise.
• Obstacle Course: Use pillows, chairs, and toys to design an indoor obstacle course that helps burn off energy.
• Storytelling Corner: Let your kids create their own holiday story using dress-up clothes, props, and plenty of imagination.

3. Budget-Friendly Holiday Fun for Kids

Entertaining kids doesn’t have to break the bank. These simple ideas will keep them busy without stretching your wallet:

• Baking Together: Bake cookies, brownies, or cupcakes together as a family and let the kids get creative decorating their treats—it’s a fun way to bond! To save both time and money, I often rely on boxed mixes or pre-cut Pillsbury cookies. It’s a simple hack that lets us enjoy more baking sessions throughout the holiday season without the stress. 
• Holiday Movie Marathons: Choose a fun theme—like Classic Christmas or Winter Wonderland—and turn your living room into the ultimate cozy movie night spot! Pop some popcorn, gather your favorite snacks, and settle in for a magical evening. I especially love making snack and dessert grazing boards packed with treats the whole family can enjoy.
• Neighborhood Lights Walk: Bundle up and head out for a stroll to soak in the magic of holiday lights in your neighborhood—it’s free, festive, and fun! If your area isn’t big on decorating, hop in the car and take a drive to neighborhoods known for their dazzling displays. It’s the perfect way to spark some holiday cheer and create magical memories with your family!

4. Educational Holiday Activities for Kids

Sneak in some learning while they’re having fun:

• Holiday Reading Challenge: Create a list of festive books and reward kids for completing each one.
• DIY Science Experiments: Make “snow” out of baking soda and shaving cream or explore ice melting with salt and water.
• Counting Down with Kindness: Start a countdown to the holidays where each day features a small act of kindness, like donating toys or baking for a neighbor.

5. Family-Friendly Holiday Events

If you’re looking to get out of the house, check out local family-friendly holiday events in your area from tree lightings to kids’ holiday concerts, there’s always something magical to enjoy together. Be sure to follow Giggles LA on social media and sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop. We’ll be sharing local family-friendly holiday events and hosting some exciting activities for kids and families during winter break. From tree lighting to kids’ holiday concerts, there’s always something magical to enjoy together. Whether you're looking for recommendations or want to join us for a fun-filled day, we’ve got you covered—let’s make this holiday season one to remember! 

Keep It Joyful

Winter break is a beautiful opportunity to slow down, breathe, and savor precious moments with your little ones. It doesn’t take elaborate plans or Pinterest-perfect activities to create lasting memories. It’s about the simple, heartfelt moments—like baking cookies together and laughing over spilled sprinkles, bundling up for a neighborhood walk to admire the twinkling lights, or sitting on the floor crafting something uniquely imperfect and entirely yours.

Give yourself permission to let go of the pressure for perfection and focus instead on the joy, love, and connection that comes from simply being present with your kids. Whether it’s snuggling on the couch for a holiday movie marathon or sharing stories over a warm cup of cocoa, every small moment adds up to something truly magical. Remember, the holidays aren’t about doing everything—they’re about cherishing this time together. You’re doing an amazing job, Mom & Dad!

And remember, if you need any supplies for crafts, games, or cozy winter essentials, Giggles LA has you covered. Stop by the store or shop online to stock up for a stress-free winter break! We are here for you!

Brooke Abbott Abron for Giggles LA: Known as Crazy Creole Mommy online, Brooke is a mom, advocate, activist, babywearing educator, and writer. As the founder of IBDMoms, she combines practical tips, mom advice, and evidence-based insights from her own lived experience to help families navigate both the joys and challenges of parenting.