Holiday Break Made Simple: Fun, Festive Ideas for Busy Families

The holidays are here! That means no school, extra time with your kids, and all the holiday fun. But let’s be real—keeping kids happy and entertained while juggling work, errands, and holiday prep can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

Kids in santa hats coloring

Here are simple and fun ways to make this holiday break amazing for your kids and stress-free for you.

1. Fun Holiday Learning Activities

Who says learning has to stop over break? Try these holiday-themed activities:

  • Craft Time: Make homemade ornaments or decorations together. Kids can use their creativity while practicing fine motor skills.
  • Baking = Math Fun: Let your kids measure ingredients for cookies or cupcakes. They’ll get a math lesson without even realizing it!
  • Holiday Reading Challenge: Pick a festive book to read together or have a family reading night with hot cocoa.
  • Free Coloring Fun: LINQ Connect has free holiday-themed coloring sheets for your kids! These fun designs are perfect for keeping little hands busy while you check off your to-do list. Download your free coloring sheets here.

At LINQ Connect, we’re so thankful for the incredible families who make what we do so meaningful. We hope these coloring sheets add a little extra cheer to your holiday season.

2. Start (or Continue) Family Traditions

The holidays are perfect for family bonding.

  • Cooking Together: Teach your kids how to make your family’s favorite holiday dishes. Bonus: It keeps them busy while you cook!
  • Acts of Kindness: Donate toys, make cards for nursing home residents, or volunteer as a family.
  • Movie Night: Cozy up with popcorn and a classic holiday movie like Elf or Home Alone.  

3. Stay Active

Got a house full of energy? Here’s how to keep everyone moving:

  • Outdoor Fun: Go sledding, have a snowball fight, or take a winter hike. No snow? Try a bike ride or play tag in the yard.
  • Indoor Dance Party: Blast holiday tunes and dance it out!
  • Obstacle Course: Use chairs, pillows, and blankets to create a mini obstacle course in the living room.  

4. Help Kids Get Ready for the New Year

Use the break to help your kids feel ready for school in January.

  • Set Goals: Talk with your kids about what they want to accomplish next year. Maybe it’s reading more books or improving their soccer skills.
  • Organize Supplies: Clean out backpacks and restock with fresh supplies like pencils and notebooks.
  • Prep Study Spaces: Make sure they have a cozy spot for homework when school starts again  

5. Make Time for Connection

Even during a busy holiday season, connecting with others is important.

  • Family Game Night: Break out board games or card games for some screen-free fun.
  • Holiday Outings: Visit a local light display or holiday market for a fun (and affordable) adventure.
  • Send Holiday Cheer: Encourage your kids to write cards or emails to friends and family.  

6. Don’t Forget About YOU

Families, you’re the real holiday heroes, but you need a break too.

  • Treat yourself to a bubble bath, a solo coffee run, or even just 10 minutes of quiet.
  • Ask for help when you need it! Share tasks like wrapping gifts or planning meals with your family.

You’ve Got This!

The holiday season doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, you can make it fun, meaningful, and filled with memories your kids will cherish forever.

Take a deep breath, grab that peppermint mocha, and enjoy this magical time with your family. You deserve it!

From everyone at LINQ Connect, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! We’re so thankful for you and wish you a season full of joy, love, and wonderful moments with your family.