Tired Parent’s Guide to Winter School Holidays

Let’s be honest — winter school holidays can feel long, especially when it’s cold, everyone’s stuck indoors, and you’re just trying to survive with your slippers on. If you’re a parent who loves your kids but doesn’t have the energy for Pinterest-worthy crafts or elaborate schedules, this one’s for you.

Here’s a no-guilt, low-effort guide to keeping the little ones entertained (and out of your hair) this winter:

1. The Blanket Fort Trick

Throw a few blankets over the couch, give them some snacks and a flashlight, and call it “camping.” Add a storybook or let them watch a movie in there. Bonus: you don’t even have to get off the couch.

2. TV with a Twist

Let them binge their favourite shows — guilt-free. Just turn it into “Movie Day” and make popcorn so it feels intentional. Want to feel educational? Add a nature doc or a classic animated film and call it culture.

3. The Cardboard Box Miracle

Give them a big empty box. Don’t ask why. Kids will turn it into a spaceship, a shop, or a house. You literally don’t need to do anything else. Just give them crayons and walk away.

4. Let Them Cook (Sort Of)

Set up a “make your own sandwich” station or give them a bowl and let them “bake” with leftover flour and sprinkles. Will it be messy? Yes. Will they be busy for at least 30 minutes? Also yes.

5. Treasure Hunt... Without Moving

Hide a few random things around the house. Write clues on sticky notes. Tell them there’s a prize at the end (like a chocolate or an old toy). Watch them run around while you sip your coffee.

6. Screen Time – But Clever

Apps like drawing games, interactive puzzles, or child-friendly audiobooks = learning + entertainment. You get peace, they get busy. Win-win.

7. Sleepover in the Lounge

Let them “camp” in the living room for a night. Sleeping bags, soft lights, and no bedtime rules. It's a treat for them and a lazy evening for you.

You don’t need to be a super parent to survive the school holidays — just a resourceful one. Embrace the cosy chaos, do the bare minimum, and remember: they’ll be back at school soon enough.