Jingle All the Way: Surviving (and Thriving!) with Kids This Holiday Break

Tackle the holiday break chaos head-on with creative ways to keep your kids entertained, on schedule, and out of your hair – all without spending a dime.

Ok, moms, buckle up! The holiday break is here, and let's be real: it's as chaotic as it is cheerful. If you're staring down the barrel of two weeks with the kiddos at home and wondering how to keep everyone sane (yourself included), I've got some practical, fun, and cost-effective ways to make this holiday break memorable for your family without adding to your already full plate.

Tip #1 - Crafting a Schedule That Doesn't Suck

First things first: a routine. I know, I know, it's the holidays. But trust me, a little structure is your BFF right now. Whip up a basic schedule with meal times, playtimes, and even quiet times.

 A visual schedule can be a game-changer, especially for younger kids. It helps them know what to expect and gives you the structure to plan your day.

Pro Tip: Involve your kids in creating this schedule. Let them pick some activities or decide the order of things. It gives them a sense of ownership and makes following the routine more exciting!

Tip #2 - Screen Time: The Necessary Evil

Let's face it, screens are sometimes the only thing between us and a bottle of wine at 2 PM. But we can't let the little darlings turn into couch potatoes. Here's the game plan:

• Get Crafty: Unleash their inner Picasso with some holiday crafts. It's messy, but it's better than another 'Frozen' marathon.

• Bake It 'Til You Make It: Drag them into the kitchen and put those little hands to work. Bonus: you get to eat the results.

• Old-School Story Time: Reading? Revolutionary, I know. But it works. Plus, it's prime cuddle time.

• For a little extra help, check out this Printable Christmas Activity Book. It's a lifesaver for slotting in activities that don't involve you playing referee.

Tip #3 - Getting out of the house without spending a fortune is like finding a unicorn. But guess what? Unicorns exist. Here's how:

• Nature Walks: Yes, it's cold. Yes, you'll need to bundle up. But a little fresh air never hurt anyone. Plus, it tires them out.

• Community Stuff: Check out local events. They're often free and an excuse to get out of the house.

• Backyard Shenanigans: Grab some tape, string, and whatever else you’ve got lying around and tell your kids to use what they find outside to build a fort.  It's free, it's fun, and hey, it's right outside your door.

Tip #4 - Final Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Break

Remember, the goal is to make memories, not add stress. Here are some final tips:

• Flexibility is Your Friend: Things won't always go as planned. Roll with it.

• Kids' Choice: Let them pick some activities. It makes them feel important and gives you a break from decision-making.

• Me Time: Don't forget to take a moment for yourself. Lock yourself in the bathroom with some chocolate if you have to.  A relaxed mom means happy kids!

Wrapping Up

A little planning, creativity, and flexibility can go a long way in making the Christmas holiday break enjoyable for both you and your kids. Remember, you're doing an incredible job, and it's okay to take things one day at a time.  So, take a deep breath, embrace the chaos, find joy in the little moments, and most importantly, give yourself some grace. You've got this!