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8 Ways to Keep Kids Busy During Winter Break and Create Great Memories

Make the most of winter break by spending time together

By Kimberly Wright - Publisher of Decatur Macaroni KID and East Atlanta Macaroni KID December 23, 2023

Happy Holidays! The holiday season brings lots of fun with friends and family, but after all the seasonal fun has passed, you may wonder what to do with the kids for their winter break. Even though boredom is good for kids and encourages creativity, you may want to have a few options on hand to give yourself a break from entertaining the kiddos while keeping them engaged. These ideas will help you make the most of your kid’s winter break ... and give you a chance to make a few memories along the way.    


1. Visit your local library in Decatur and Avondale. 

Take the kids on a trip to your local library. This is a great way to encourage them to read over the break and get them out of the house for the afternoon. Check your Macaroni KID event calendar for library events!


2. Have a holiday movie marathon with family and friends!

Spend some time bingeing on all your favorite holiday movies. Let the family pick a movie, grab some snacks, and cozy up. Here is a list of 100 holiday movies to get you started. You may not make a huge dent in the list however you can have fun trying. 



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3. Host a playdate

Playdates over winter break will allow your kids to see their friends and give you a break ... win-win! Here are several playdate ideas from What Mommy Does. 


4. Get in the kitchen and celebrate traditions while making memories. 

Growing up, one of my favorite things was baking with my mother and grandmother. Not only is it fun, it is an excellent way to pass on family recipes and traditions. Begin this tradition by letting them lead the way project and gifting them their copy of the recipes. This will be a priceless gift. 



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5. Make appointments and use the last of your annual healthcare spending accounts.  

This might not be considered fun, however, winter break is a good time to take care of any necessary appointments, from physicals to the orthodontist. Using this time now means less time off from school and work later.     


6. Get outside and make more family memories!

Bundle up and head to a local park or playground. Nothing’s better than a little fresh air and exercise from playing outside, even if it's chilly!  You can even consider going to Fernbank and exploring Wildwoods and the Fernbank Forest. It is the perfect setting with 75 acres of new outdoor nature adventures. Imagine immersive trails, educational programming, hands-on exhibits, and beautiful scenery.



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7. Donate or volunteer at a local shelter while teaching your family community service. 

Donating old toys and clothes to charity helps teach your kids to appreciate what they have. It also helps make room for any new holiday gifts they may receive. You can also find out if any local shelters or other nonprofits could use a helping hand! Many can find ways for kids to volunteer with a parent. Please remember the animal shelter can also use your services. Check out PAWS Atlanta to get started and please share Macaroni KID of Decatur - North Druid Hills - Avondale sent you. 


8. Go bowling

An afternoon at a bowling alley is always a great time! Check out The Comet Pub & Lanes in Decatur. 



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Hopefully, these ideas keep your kids engaged and make lasting memories during their winter break!