There’s something about the craziness of the holidays, and it doesn’t seem to slow down.
Everyone is ‘busy’ and EW, we absolutely hate that word. I think everyone just wants to take it easy. Where did December go?
The reality of it is, if you’re anything like us you have your own set of items to check off your list. We’re rounding up teachers’ gifts, and we’re still wrestling moving boxes… because real life. We feel like we moved in, and then it hit us like a tidal wave. We were doing room reveals on top of decorating for Christmas. On top of growing our business {we have some fun stuff coming up, that we can’t wait to share} on top of trying to finish out the basement because yes, still, septic. Still.
Still.
I think we’re just trying to be present, because regardless of all that crazy stuff just like everyone else is experiencing, that’s the most important part. I don’t want to feel scattered. Santa is still a thing at our house and we want to soak that up. I want to remember the reason we celebrate. I want to take a moment and just be.
Yes, these are ridiculously stupid first world probs.
We’re so happy to be here.
Yes, they do always look guilty.
But my point behind this declaration of holidaisical apocalypse crazies? Every year, we tend to do some ideas with the kids when they’re out of school or when we we’re taking a break. There’s the rush and excitement of it all, and then it slows to a bit of a cold weather halt. It’s restful, if we allow it to be.
We long for it to be. I know with all the obligations it can be hard. And if you’re anything like us, the offspring may even eventually declare themselves as bored.
WHAT.
I don’t know about you, but I think it’s good to be bored. I welcome the feeling, honestly. Just not the ensuing panic because it probably means I didn’t do something.
But this is when we usually spread out our hoarded crafting supplies around the table, and do a few last minute crafts to keep their little hands busy, because creativity is always good. It’s something of a tradition with us. And while I didn’t have time to whip up something to share here, we still plan to do something fun with them behind the scenes. In the meantime…
Here’s a few of our very favorite projects of the past, if you’re finding yourself with some restless little natives. From a few simple supplies to breaking out some power tools, if you’d like to avoid constant screen time with a dash of quality family activities, as well.
Because that’s always a bonus.
Our handmade felt ornaments, here
Or more fun ideas to deck the halls, here
These might be for Valentines, but you could easily up the ante and your baking skills for Christmas, too. The kids love making these stained glass cookies.
Also, I plan to place bricks on my childrens’ heads so they STOP GROWING.
Baby it’s cold outside: Indoor S’mores
DIY heart puzzles
map puzzles
Make your own tassel necklaces
Image puzzles
marbelized jewelry
Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t grow something fun in your windowsill.
simple pinch pots – bonus they make a sweet gift!
And speaking of clay…
The best homemade play-doh recipe, with color theory printables if you want to be edumacational and stuff.
hot air balloon light catchers
These are some of our favorite ideas for keeping their little hands moving and their minds working in that creative mode.
May your holidays be wonderful and bright, and even boring.
Filled with loved ones, to boot.
Bonnie says
Great ideas for keeping my grandkids busy. You are so creative 🙂 Thanks so much! I hope you and yours have a Blessed and Merry Christmas!