With the holiday season fast approaching, we look forward to a break from our typical busy routines, and to time spent together with family and friends. Hopefully this means MORE cozy mornings and LESS rushed evenings. More time around the table or fireplace – steeped in conversation or playing games together. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? But somehow it feels like you just “blink” on Thanksgiving, and suddenly – it’s the middle of January! A little planning now can help us make the most of the time – nurturing relationships, creating memories, and all the while, boosting brain skills!
Building Jigsaw Puzzles
Picture it: the fireplace crackling, a steaming cup of cocoa, and the whole family gathered around a table – trying to figure out where that ONE tricky piece fits! In the hustle and bustle of the season, puzzles cause you to slow down and connect while providing a healthy workout for your brain! They exercise both sides of the brain together, improving problem-solving, attention to detail, and focus. Studies show they can even delay cognitive decline as we age! As everyone works together to complete the picture, puzzles encourage conversation and collaboration. And best of all, everyone can join in – grandparents, kids, teens… even the cousins that are visiting! Pick puzzles to match your family’s skill level and available time. Smaller ones make a nice individual activity and are perfect for stockings!
Cooking Together
There's something special about gathering in the kitchen, aprons on- whipping up holiday favorites together! Whether baking cookies for neighbors and friends or making festive meals for your family – the process encourages teamwork, communication, and laughter. It’s also nice to have delicious smells wafting from the kitchen! But did you know that cooking is a goldmine for building brain skills? It requires kids to plan (gather ingredients), sequence (follow steps in order) focus, and sometimes multi-task. Plus, it's a great way to practice math and reading skills! And if you don’t love to cook – here are festive recipes with only a few ingredients, that everyone will love!
Playing Games as a Family
Games are the ultimate holiday icebreaker, bringing everyone together to spark friendly competition and create lasting memories. They encourage conversation and laughter, making it easy to connect across generations – kids, parents, and grandparents all enjoying a shared experience! Playing them teaches valuable skills like patience, resilience, and good sportsmanship. They also sharpen strategic thinking, problem- solving, and memory skills. Whether it's a board game, card game, or spontaneous game of charades, there’s something for everyone! The game my family never gets tired of playing is Telestrations. It’s great for all ages and you’re guaranteed to have a blast!
Arts & Crafts
Gather ‘round the table for a little hands-on fun that gets everyone talking and sharing ideas. Crafting improves fine motor skills and focus while encouraging problem solving and creativity. And homemade creations often turn into keepsakes that hold special memories for years to come. If you’ve got a few popsicle sticks lying around, these adorable picture frame ornaments make a lovely gift! Or encourage the joy of nature with these simple Pinecone Birdfeeders that attract wildlife to your yard. That’s delightful fun for all ages!
With the extra time this holiday season, many kids will gravitate towards spending hours on screens, which is isolating and unhealthy. But with a little encouragement from us, they'll love weaving these simple activities (which are brain-boosting AND memory-making!) into the season!
