Make Sure They Eat Well and Exercise
There is an obvious link between proper nutrition, daily exercise, and effective studying. It may be tempting to take a break from eating well during Christmas break, especially with family gatherings, church Christmas fellowships, and children being allowed to sleep in.
While the break affords parents some wiggle-room for preparing food, make sure your children maintain a semblance of proper nutrition. Also, even if the weather is frightful, make sure your children continue to get exercise and time outdoors.
Have Children Continue Reading and Writing
Sell holiday-related breaks from school as an opportunity for children to catch up on the books they have had to delay reading. Challenge your children to meet reading goals and reward them accordingly. For younger children, have them read their Christmas cards and other things out loud and celebrate when they do well.
Children can practice spelling and grammar by writing out their gift wish lists and thank-you notes to friends and family who gave them presents. Other writing project ideas include Christmas letters to residents of local nursing homes, deployed soldiers, and children who might receive shoeboxes your family and church pack for Operation Christmas Child.
Study Advent Related Scripture Together
Advent refers to the season of anticipation for the coming Messiah. Celebrated generally from the first Sunday after Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve, it is a time to reflect on what it was like to wait for Jesus to come to earth to save us. It is also a season to remember that we are awaiting the Second Advent when Christ returns.
This is a great time to participate in family devotions and reading plans that help your children make the connection between anticipating their desired gifts to the greater sense of anticipation people in the Old Testament had as they awaited the promised Savior.
Participate in Educational Activities During the Holidays in Haywood County
The Great Smokey Mountain Railroad: Enjoy The Great Smokey Mountain Railroad during the Christmas season as it becomes the Polar Express.
Cataloochee Valley: There is always wildlife to see in Cataloochee, whether it’s elk and deer or a family of black bears. What better way to learn about animals than to see them in the wild?
Take a Hike: Late fall and early winter often affords temperatures pleasant for hiking, while the lack of leaves can help maximize views. We have several great hiking trails and areas in Haywood County and neighboring areas, including:
- Max Patch
- Pink Beds Trail Loop
- Purchase Knob Hiking Trail
- Graveyard Fields Trails and Waterfalls
- Clingman’s Dome
- The Appalachian Trail
Do Assigned School Work Before the Last Minute
Your children likely have assignment instructions for the break stuffed in their notebooks and bookbags. They will likely remember those assignments the day before they return to school. Set aside some time for working on homework before the last-minute. This will help reduce stress as the holiday season draws to a close.
If you would like more tips on studying during the holidays, we are here to help. Haywood Christian Academy is a private Christian school in Waynesville, helping students become Christian leaders and successful adults. For more information about our school, contact us.