Children have a lot of free time around the holidays. Instead of spending this time watching television or playing video games, they could participate in other creative activities that would nurture their minds as well as their spirits.
Board Games
Board games enable families to play together. It doesn't matter which game they play as long as the rules are easy enough to understand for the youngest play to enjoy it. Older children can learn to be role models for their younger siblings though this kind of play. When adults and children play board games together, children learn valuable interpersonal skills they can carry with them throughout their educational careers and beyond.
Crafting
Even small children like to see their work displayed in the home and the holiday season is a perfect time to showcase their talents. Parents can provide the supplies their children need and guide them as they put together various craft projects. When they are complete, the family can add them to the annual Christmas decorations.
Coloring
Coloring can be an independent or group activity. Parents just need to a nativity coloring page or manger coloring page to their children, along with a box of crayons and watch them bring the nativity scene to life. It's important for parents to allow their children to be creative and not limit them to certain colors for various aspects of the page. Parents who encourage their children to be creative rather than to conform raise more well-adjusted and creative adults.
Outdoor Play
All play doesn't have to be structured. If the weather is nice and the children have had their fill of board games and completed a manger nativity coloring page, parents may encourage them to play outside. There are plenty of things kids can do outdoors. If there is snow on the ground, they could build a snowman. In warmer climates, children may run, jump rope or climb. Whatever they do outdoors should be active. Children rarely get any exercise when they take their electronics outside with them.
The manger nativity for Christmas is a staple in many homes during the holiday season. Some adults prefer to decorate their homes while their children are sleeping or engrossed in other activities while others involve their children in setting up the Christmas tree, adding decorations and putting up the manger. Children like to be helpful and will be proud of their accomplishments even if they aren't perfect.
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