What to Do with Your Family for the Holidays

If the holidays mean a trip home, houseguests or a few days off work, then you're looking at some free time. Not having anything planned can be a relief during a busy time of year, but finding yourself with nothing to do and a house full of people can be stressful in its own way. Strike a balance between overly organized and boredom by having some activities in mind that can be enjoyed at a moment's notice.

Board Games: Board games are an easy solution. Many games have the advantage of being easy to start, easy to clean up and easy to store. Keep some classics, like this checkers board or a set of dominoes, around, or opt for a twist on an old favorite with Cat-opoly or the Family Guy Collector's Edition of the Game of LIFE.

Non-board Games: Sometimes sitting down to play a board game sounds too tame; if you're looking for a game to get people moving, try something like Just Dance: Summer Party. Or split the difference and play an interactive game like Christmas Fun Mad Libs; then act out the story you've created.

Outdoor activities: The holidays can be a great time to get outside and get moving. If the weather where you live is cold and snowy, you can go sledding or snowshoeing or just take a walk around the neighborhood and check out the decorations. If you live in a warmer climate, get out your bike and go for a ride, go roller skating in the park or play lawn games in the yard.

Cooking: Sometimes you want to do something but don't want to get all the gear together to leave the house. If you're having a hard time getting outside, try getting people to work together on a new recipe. Check cookbooks for inspiration, or choose a family recipe and teach the younger generation how to make it.

Movies: For truly lazy days, put on a movie; it can be one you've seen before, a new release or even a TV series. Pop up some popcorn, get cozy under a throw and enjoy doing nothing at all.

I've got activities in mind for my days off. What are you planning?

Posted by Jessica Gezon