Come winter and the air is filled with the Christmas vibe. One can’t help but think of mistletoe, decorated Christmas trees with presents beneath them, hanging socks, elaborate seven-course suppers, free-flowing wine, chatter and camaraderie! Christmas spent in a pandemic the past year has been a far cry from any and all of the joy we associate it with. The threat of a major outbreak dangles on our necks once again but having celebrated a sombre Christmas last time, you can’t just do nothing this time. The outlook is still fairly gloomy but no one said you cannot have a little fun (even if that's indoors)!

Here’s a curation of 8 fun and engaging things you can do with your little ones this winter break:

1. Throw a movie marathon: Throw a family movie night to watch classics of all times. Experience your favourite movies once again with your children.

2. Redecorate your house: Winter is a great time to redecorate a room or two in the house. This can be a floor to ceiling redecoration, moving in new furniture, giving the walls a fresh paint or just simply putting up Christmas decor to usher in the season’s vibe.

3. Get organized: Turn the cluttered closets and messy pantries into shape once and for all! Begin the new year with an arranged, prim house. Besides being a fun activity, this will instil discipline in children.

4. Host an intimate family brunch: Whip-up some amazing brunch recipes for a fresh at-home meal with your family. Let your children help you plan the brunch - starting from deciding the guest list to sending out invites to brunch menu and decor to even cooking! This will give them a sense of responsibility whilst making them feel more included in the celebrations.

5. Pen a handwritten letter: You can always call up your long distance friends and family but there's something extra special about sending a handwritten letter. This winter, make handwritten postcards/ letters along with your tots and drop it to the post office. This gives an extremely personal, caring touch to your greetings and gives kids a peek into a world before instant messaging.

6. Volunteer at a soup kitchen: Giving back is always in season! Gain gratitude and teach children giving back to the community by volunteering at local food banks, charity drives, etc.

7. Go to a museum: Winter is an ideal time to visit a museum. Give your children the much needed exposure - be it science or art. In the times of youtube-ing and google-ing everything, let them get a taste of exploring a museum. However, before visiting, do check for abbreviated hours and Covid procedures.

8. Try your hand at knitting: Once deemed boring, knitting and sewing is back in fashion. Knit a sweater or do a cross-stitch the old fashioned way. This is super fun for children and who knows, they may actually end up knitting a sweater or two for themselves!

Try out these out and let us know in the comments how it went. We can't wait to hear!