My brain has been working overtime to answer the question of what to do with your kids over this winter break. You know what? The answers are so simple!
#1 – Do Nothing
Guess what?
I give you permission to play. I give you permission to let your kids be BORED! (Don’t worry they will come up with something on their own!) I give you permission to let things go (laundry, dishes, baking) can all wait; time with family and friends cannot.
Places to do nothing:
- In your own backyard
- Aimless walks around your neighborhood (see what you can see)
- At the park
#2 – Explore Winter
Winter in Southern California is still winter. Have your kids take “imaginary memory pictures” of winter, so they can compare it to when you take the same outings in spring. Go to the beach and note the differences. What do the trees look like at the park?
Places to explore winter:
#3 – Watch the sun set over the ocean
We have such the life in Orange County! Take advantage of the incredible views.
Places to see sunsets and inspiration to watch more:
#4 – Spot whales from shore
In California, migration involves more than birds! Grey whales are making their way along the coast. Can you spot them?
Places to spot whales:
- Top 12 Whale Watching Parks and Beaches
- Dana Wharf (charter boat trips)
#5 – Grab Bag
What are you in the mood to do? Give the kids a choice and let them lead the way:
- Take a family walk?
- Play Board Games without the Rules
- Draw a LEGO and Build
- Bean Bags Don’t Bounce
- Make Bubble Catchers
- Unstructured Play with Cardboard Boxes
- Cardboard Magic
- Simple Play for Kids: Towels
- Simple Play for Kids: Flashlights
- Simple Play for Kids: Brown Paper Bag
- Color Walks with Kids and a Camera
I am going to sign off until next week, but there should be plenty to keep you busy here!!
Danielle says
Loved the response above. Ditto. To ALL of it! Here’s to what else you have in your grab bag for 2012!
Britton Minor says
LOVE to visit your site, to read the ease and joy with which you write about nature, children, family…enjoying the best that life has to offer.
For 2012…our family will be using your site as our go-to spot for MORE , far more outings. Thank you for your time, passion and effort in providing such a phenomenal resource!