Our family is the type that doesn’t really love crowds. Around the holiday season, everywhere is packed with people and everything goes up in price. Because of that, we usually choose to stay home, do something local, and then travel when it’s not peak season.
I know — when it’s not peak season, kids are usually in school. And yes, that’s true. But I always communicate with the teacher, follow up with make-up work or assignments afterward, and as long as it’s not too often, it’s usually totally fine.
But then the big question comes up every year.
What do we do during this long winter break?
Well, we live in Long Island, New York, and here are some of the things we usually do.
1. A day trip to the city
We usually take one day to bring the kids into the city to see the lights and the big Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. We walk around Bryant Park, and if possible, do some ice skating there. It’s tiring, cold, and crowded — but it’s also something special that feels very “winter break.”
2. The local library
Another day, we take them to the local library to borrow books and join any classes or activities they have. Some classes require registration ahead of time, so it’s good to check early. I love this option because it’s calm, educational, and free.
3. Indoor bounce houses
Sometimes we do an indoor bounce house to let them release their energy — especially boys. This option is not my favorite, though. I don’t love dark spaces, loud noise (people plus music), and I always come out with a headache. And yes, it’s usually very packed during the holidays. But kids love it, so sometimes we do it anyway.
4. Eating out as an activity
We also like going to buffets. My kids love it. For them, it’s more like an activity — they get to walk around, choose their food, and try new things.
Another favorite is revolving sushi restaurants. They love the idea that the plates move on a track in front of them and they get to choose what they want. It feels exciting to them.
And of course, hibachi restaurants. Kids love watching food being cooked in front of them. Some places even play with the kids or make balloon animals. I love this option because I don’t have to cook or clean, and the kids enjoy the experience.
5. Staying home and finding things to do
For older kids, they can usually find something to do on their own. For younger kids, you’ll need to plan more.
Around this time, they usually just got their gifts, so they stay busy playing with new toys or new things. You can also plan simple activities based on what they’re interested in. Movie night with popcorn is always an easy win.
6. Sledding
Yes, of course — if it snows. And this year, we’ve had a lot of snow here. You can usually find local spots where kids can play in the snow for free, which is always a great way to burn energy.
7. Board games (with a twist)
I love playing board games with my kids. But I also realized that sometimes, especially with boys, they really need to release energy.
Sitting still for too long just doesn’t work for them.
So I started thinking differently about games. I wanted something where they could learn new things, think a little, and also move their bodies. Something that keeps their brains working but also helps them feel tired at the end.
I’ll be honest — I love the part where they get tired.
I feel successful every time it happens.
This is how our Active Bingo started
That’s actually how our Active Bingo game came to life.
I wanted something that felt like a game, not a lesson. Something that gets kids moving, thinking, and interacting — without screens and without sitting still the whole time.
Active Bingo mixes simple activities, movement, and fun challenges. Kids stay engaged, they move their bodies, and somehow they’re still learning without realizing it.
For me, it became one more option for long breaks like winter break. Something easy to pull out at home, something interactive, and something that helps burn energy in a good way.
Winter break doesn’t have to be big trips or expensive plans. Sometimes it’s just about finding a few things that work for your family — at home, locally, and in ways that don’t completely drain you as a mom.
If you’re staying home this winter break, you’re not doing it wrong.
You’re just doing it your way.
If this sounds like something your kids would enjoy, I’ve shared the Active Bingo game here.