Skip to main content
Clear icon
49º

Ways to beat children’s winter break boredom

If your children tend to complain of boredom during winter break, we’ve got a bunch of fun and easy ways to keep them busy.

Dr. Gina Robinson, a pediatrician for Cleveland Clinic Children’s, said to start, get some fresh air.

“Anytime you can, get outside and go for a walk,” said Robinson. “Scavenger hunts are fun, eye spy, just trying to see what you see around you in your neighborhood.”

Since we don’t live in a colder climate, snowboarding, skiing or sledding aren’t on the table. But depending on the weather, a trip to the beach is still an option -- even during winter. Hikes in our many state parks are also a fun way to stay active.

RELATED: 5 ways to keep the kids healthy over holiday breaks

But, the real icing on the cake could be baking.

Frosting holiday cookies is delicious because you get to taste them. Plus, it’s a group effort that encourages creativity.

Other options include arts and crafts, making a holiday gift, getting lost in a good book, pulling out a puzzle or trying your luck at a board game.

Even video games or computers can help entertain children. However, Robinson does advise limiting screen time.

“Take a break. Everything doesn’t have to be educational. We don’t want to spend the whole day looking at a screen, or the whole day playing video games either. So, trying to find the balance,” she said.

Whatever activity you choose, she said, simple structure and a little routine can help make the return to school that much easier.