As the holidays approach, most families look forward to a break. Our focus shifts to faith, family traditions and countless holiday events. However, holidays can also be hectic, with many more demands on our time. To help you continue to focus on learning through the holidays and transition back to your typical routine afterward, remember that learning happens through everyday life, especially during the holidays.
Language Arts
Language arts include all forms of reading, writing and language. Think about how many language arts activities you do as you complete your favorite holiday traditions. Teach your children to write Christmas cards to grandparents or other family members. Pick out holiday stories that have also been turned into movies. Read the books together, then watch the movies. Afterward, talk about how they differ and why. This is great for younger and older children, with books like How the Grinch Stole Christmas and A Christmas Carol.
Math & Science
Okay, so we may not all get super excited about math and science during the holidays. But it can still be a lot of fun and even helpful! As children wrap presents (using wrapping paper and tape – not gift bags), they practice their measurement skills. How much paper should I use? How much tape? What are the different ways I could wrap this odd-shaped gift? Include your children in cooking activities, especially baking. Children learn more valuable application skills as they measure ingredients and calculate how much to measure when we double recipes for all our guests! Cooking also provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the chemical reactions that occur when different ingredients are combined, heated and cooled.
Social Studies
Learn about holidays from around the world, including how other countries celebrate the same holiday differently. You may even choose to try out some of these traditions. After learning about this long-standing British tradition, you may order (or make) your own Christmas Crackers. Perhaps you and your children can learn to say Merry Christmas or Happy Hanukkah in different languages. If you know about your family heritage, research how people celebrate holidays in those countries to make it more personal.
Art & Music
Of course, we can’t celebrate the holidays without music and decorations. Sing carols, learn what was commonly sung 100 years ago, or dance to your favorite song. Grandma Got Runover by a Reindeer comes to mind. Provide your children with various materials from the dollar store and encourage them to make holiday decorations.
The Joy of Giving
Inherent in our holiday traditions is the joy of giving. We give gifts, we give our time, and we give our hearts. Instill the joy of giving into your children this season. Ask them to make a gift. This isn’t just for little ones; teens can make a beautiful craft, poem, story or even candles. Perhaps you have a budding writer who would enjoy writing Christmas cards to send to our military serving overseas. Help others celebrate the holidays with Angel Trees, Toys 4 Tots and other similar initiatives. You may even choose to serve as a family. Volunteer with your church, at a homeless shelter, or help someone else decorate or shop for the holidays. Invite someone to join you and your family if they don’t have any family nearby to celebrate with. The lessons your children will learn through giving will last a lifetime.
Related Articles: