Snow Day Tips

It is officially “snow day” season! It can be nice to escape from the normal routine for a while, but the lack of structure in a child’s day can turn the extra family time from refreshing to frustrating. Below are some tips to keep in mind when you and your kids are cooped up inside this winter:

1.      Free play is good… in moderation. Kids need structure so they know what is expected of them. Letting them know how you expect the day to be spent will allow them to plan accordingly and protect you from disappointment if chores are not done. If you don’t tell them what you expect, they will not know. 

2.      Set boundaries when it comes to screen time. It is easy for kids of all ages to get caught up in the black hole which is YouTube and social media. A little extra screen time on a day off school is understandable, but try not to let the whole day off become sitting and staring.

3.       Utilize meal times for connection. With schedules being out of the ordinary, try to find times that everyone is doing the same thing (ie, preparing, eating or cleaning up meals) to engage in intentional conversation. A round of “Highs and Lows” or “Beef and Broccoli” will get kids talking and present in the moment.

4.      Schedule some separated time. It is said that absence makes the heart grow fonder--  this can especially be true for siblings! If you have multiple children, try separating them from one another to play a game or puzzle with you, help you do a chore, or read books. That way, you and your child get to connect one on one and they get some much-needed time to refresh and recharge.