Winter break is a time for family, festivities, and relaxation—but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. Without school schedules in place, our days at home often lack structure, and the cries for “just five more minutes” of screen time can quickly start to wear on parents. It’s tempting to reach for our own digital escapes (hello, Real Housewives marathons!), but those brief distractions aren’t always enough to recharge us or keep kids meaningfully engaged. This year, consider incorporating non-tech gift ideas for kids to keep them entertained and creatively engaged during the holiday season!
If managing screen time and keeping your family entertained feels overwhelming, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many parents share the same concerns, and after gathering tips from other families, we’ve put together a guide to help you thrive during winter break. From practical screen time strategies to non-tech gift ideas, here’s everything you need to make your holiday break joyful, creative, and connected.
Table of Contents
Screen Time Tips for the Holidays
- Set Clear Rules and Expectations
Devices are here to stay, but that doesn’t mean screen time should take over. Designate specific times of the day for screens and set clear time limits. Some parents find that using a visual timer empowers kids to stick to the rules while minimizing potential meltdowns when time’s up. Keep devices in shared spaces—never bathrooms or bedrooms—and always monitor online activities. And, of course, don’t forget the importance of setting up a content filter. - Think Ahead If Gifting Tech
If a device—like a PlayStation or tablet—is on your gift list this year, establish its use guidelines ahead of time. Discuss family rules, create a tech contract with your child, and consider gifting the device from yourself, rather than “Santa,” so expectations are clear. Many parents find it trickier to set rules when the device comes from the North Pole. - Make Room for “Free Days”
While we want to limit excessive screen use, offering an occasional “free day” with relaxed online time can help maintain balance. Be sure to keep basic safety measures in place, like using devices in open areas and monitoring content. - Go Interactive With Digital Time
On-screen activities don’t have to be passive. Try interactive or family-friendly platforms like Nexplay, which combines digital engagement with active play. - Choose Educational Entertainment
Opt for shows or videos that are less overstimulating but still fun, like Dr. Pol on NatGeo Wild or Kids Baking Championship. These options balance enjoyment with a touch of learning.
Non-Tech Activities to Try Over Winter Break
Even if screens have their time and place, finding opportunities for family bonding and offline creativity is essential. Here are a few ideas to keep your kids busy, engaged, and smiling this holiday season:
- Activity-Focused Gifts that involve building, making, or creating. Think LEGO kits, bracelet-making sets, arts and crafts supplies, or crystal-growing projects.
- Puzzles and Board Games for the family to enjoy together—classics like Scrabble are always a hit.
- Outdoor Adventures to take advantage of unseasonably warm weather. Bundle up and head out to see local light displays, visit the zoo, or simply go for a walk around the block.
- Quick Connection Moments like baking cookies, wrapping presents together, or sipping hot chocolate. Kids don’t always need hours of attention—a solid 10 minutes of focused time can work wonders.
Top Tips to Help Parents Thrive, Too
A happy, patient parent makes for a happier household. Amid the chaos of winter break, don’t forget to prioritize yourself. Here are some ways to make self-care part of your routine:
- Keep Your Routine (Mostly)
Even though the kids are on break, implementing aspects of your regular schedule—like sticking to a consistent bedtime—can help everyone feel more grounded. - Prioritize Rest
Take time to recharge. Enjoy a quiet moment with a good book, stretch, or savor a hot cup of coffee before jumping into family time. - Move Your Body
Whether it’s a quick workout, a calming yoga session, or a brisk walk outside, staying active helps boost your mood and energy.
When you feel your best, you’re better equipped to enjoy these special moments with your kids, making winter break truly memorable for everyone.
Non-Tech Gift Ideas Perfect for Any Age
Still hunting for last-minute, non-tech gifts? Check out this roundup of kid-approved ideas that inspire creativity, physical activity, or family fun:
All-Ages Gifts
- Glow pads for creative doodling
- Personalized pet-themed pajamas
- Arts and crafts supplies, bracelet kits, or scissors kits for crafty kids
- LEGO 3-in-1 building sets
- Roller Skates
- Stem toys
- Crystal growing kit
- Indoor/outdoor nets for active games
- Pickleball paddles and balls
- 2 player Kanoodle
- Classic games like Scrabble, Uzzle, and magnetic chess
- Walkie talkies—fun and great for communication games!
Books
Gifts for Boys
- Hot Wheels cars and tracks
- Playbook football
- Tetrus
- Airplane launchers and mini basketball goals
- Samurai-building sets with remote controls
- Glow-in-the-dark footballs or basketballs
- Sports-focused books or graphic novels
Gifts for Girls
- Sephora skincare sets or perfume
- Room décor like personalized throw blankets or jewelry boxes
- Fidgets, pencil cases, and artsy pen sets
- Cozy slippers
- Bath and body works gift set:
- Bath and body works hand sanitizers
Make It Memorable With Non-Tech Gift Ideas For Kids
The holidays can be a lot of work, but they’re also an incredible opportunity to foster connection, creativity, and rest. By balancing screen time with enriching offline activities, you can create a winter break full of memories your family will cherish. Remember to give yourself grace, prioritize your well-being, and enjoy these moments of togetherness. Because when the tech gets turned off, the magic of family time truly shines.
Wishing you a joyful and thriving winter break!
