The holiday break survival guide

Made for parents who are just trying to keep it together

Author

Sheena Badani
December 14, 2024

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Alright, here we are. The holiday break. Two glorious weeks where the kids are home, there’s no school to save you, and you’re left asking, “What the heck am I supposed to do with them?”

You had big dreams of cozy family bonding—matching PJs, baking cookies, everyone smiling in front of the tree. But here’s reality: Day one, they’re already fighting over who gets the remote. By day three, you’re hiding in the bathroom scrolling Instagram.

Here’s the thing: Your kids don’t need elaborate crafts or an itinerary that rivals a corporate retreat. They just need you. But connecting with them? Easier said than done.

Lucky for you, I’ve got a playbook: 4 simple, science-backed ways to engage with your kids so you actually survive thrive this holiday break.

PS: My holiday gift for you is at the end.

The 4 science-backed pillars of connection

1. Conversation

Kids are full of stories, questions, and observations—if you can catch them in the right mood. Whether they’re recounting every detail of recess or giving you one-word answers, the way you engage with them shapes how safe they feel opening up.

Tips for Great Conversations:

  • Pick the Right Moment: Kids tend to open up when they’re relaxed, like during car rides, bedtime, or while doing something together (like cooking or walking).

  • Ask Open-Ended Questions: Swap “How was your day?” for “What made you laugh today?” or “What’s the coolest thing you’ve learned this week?”

  • Go Deeper: Ask why 5 times to really understand what they’re thinking.

  • Be Playful: Use games like “Would You Rather” or “This or That” to spark a fun dialogue.

  • Share Your Stories: Kids love hearing about your childhood—especially the embarrassing parts.

What science says: Studies from Harvard University show that asking open-ended questions encourages critical thinking and builds trust in parent-child relationships.

2. Play

For kids, play isn’t just fun—it’s how they process the world, manage stress, and feel seen. When you get down on their level and join in, you’re telling them: “You matter to me.”

Play Ideas for All Ages:

  • Imaginative Play: Build a fort, create a scavenger hunt, or make up silly characters together.

  • Games: Card games, puzzles, or a family board game night.

  • Physical Play: Go for a bike ride, create an indoor obstacle course, or challenge them to a dance-off.

  • Let Them Lead: Ask them to teach you a game they love—it’s a fun way to step into their world.

What science says: The American Academy of Pediatrics highlights that play with parents helps kids develop social skills, manage emotions, and build resilience. It’s also a great way to reset after a tough day or a sibling argument.

3. Creativity

Kids love to create, and the holidays are the perfect time to channel their energy into something fun and collaborative. Whether it’s crafting, storytelling, or baking, creative activities let you bond while making something memorable (even if it’s a little messy).

Creative Activities to Try:

  • Crafts: Make holiday decorations, cards, or DIY gifts.

  • Storytelling: Write a short story together, or have them illustrate a holiday scene while you narrate.

  • Music & Drama: Write a silly family song or act out a skit.

  • Baking: Decorate cookies or build a gingerbread house. Bonus: You get a snack at the end!

What science says: Studies from the American Psychological Association show that creativity boosts happiness, improves focus, and strengthens problem-solving skills. Plus, it’s a great way to foster your child’s sense of confidence and imagination.

4. Real-World Experiences

Kids might not remember every gift they unwrap, but they’ll always remember the things you did together. Whether it’s an outing, a new experience, or giving back to your community, shared moments like these create lifelong memories.

Ideas for Real-World Fun:

  1. Food Adventures: Try hot cocoa at a new café or go try a new cuisine.

  2. Cultural Outings: Visit a museum, explore a holiday market, or see a local play.

  3. Nature: Go on a snowy hike, have a backyard campfire, or explore a local park.

  4. Service: Volunteer together—whether it’s a food drive, delivering cookies to neighbors, or helping at an animal shelter.

What science says: Research published in Family Relations highlights that shared family experiences, especially those involving novel or meaningful activities, promote stronger bonds and give kids a sense of belonging and security.

Connection is the best gift

This holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of to-do lists, shopping, and schedules. But the greatest gift you can give your kids is your time.

So this holiday season, forget the pressure to plan every minute. Pick one of these four pillars and start there. Because the best gift you can give your kids isn’t found in a store—it’s you. (And maybe a snack. Kids are always hungry.)

My gift for you

Here’s your holiday gift: print out this PDF with an easy to view list of activities for the winter break. Tag us in your adventures @parintapp