Learning in the Christmas Holidays: How to Keep Your Child Engaged
The Christmas break can be a wonderful time for family bonding, yet as the school term draws to a close, it can be easy for children to forget all the work they have completed and focus on the Christmas excitement.
Here are three ways to ensure your child’s brains remain active and stimulated while still getting into the holiday spirit.
1. Play Some Games!
There’s no better time than Christmas to dive into some friendly family competition! Board games and card games are excellent tools for sneakily reinforcing essential skills while having a blast. Classics like Scrabble and Monopoly not only provide hours of entertainment but also challenge children’s verbal and mathematical reasoning. Scrabble boosts vocabulary and encourages strategic thinking, while Monopoly hones skills in critical thinking and decision-making.
For a fast-paced twist, matching card games like Dobble or Uno promote quick thinking and pattern recognition, along with basic mathematical skills. Trivia games such as Scattergories and Trivial Pursuit spark curiosity about the world, enhancing knowledge in areas like geography, history, and music. This wider knowledge can be extremely useful if preparing for school interviews or entrance exams in the future.
This holiday season, gather the kids around the game table and watch them learn and grow whilst creating memories together!
2. Set up a Holiday Reading Challenge
Encouraging independent reading during the holiday break is a fantastic way to keep your child’s mind active. A holiday reading challenge can motivate them to explore new stories and ideas. Consider setting a goal for them to read around five to ten books, or challenge them to explore different genres like fantasy, adventure, or mystery. You could also introduce a reward system to keep them motivated – perhaps a special Christmas treat after they tick a book off the list! If you choose a book that has an accompanying holiday movie, watching it together afterwards can be a lovely way to celebrate their achievement!
3. Bring Them to See Theatre
Why not treat your family to the magic of live theatre? There are lots of events during this festive period that can aid your child’s understanding of storytelling while also improving their attention to detail. It’s a wonderful way to combine entertainment with meaningful learning!
Presented by the Hong Kong Ballet, the timeless favourite The Nutcracker Ballet is returning to Hong Kong. This enchanting production is perfect for children and adults alike, telling the story of Clara and her beloved Nutcracker on their whimsical adventure through stunning music and intricate choreography.
Performance Dates:
- With live music: December 13-26, 2024
- With recorded music: December 27-29, 2024
Another wonderful option is the Kids’ Gallery Winter Wonderland, featuring a delightful production of Narnia. This enchanting show brings the beloved characters from The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe to life on stage, offering children a chance to immerse themselves into the magical world of Narnia. It’s an opportunity for young audiences to engage with the story in a new way, making it a perfect addition to your holiday plans!
Event Details:
- When: December 11-15, 2024
- Where: Shouson Theater, Hong Kong Arts Center, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
-RT
