It seems months of anticipation build up for the few short weeks of the holiday season only to disappear all too quickly. When it comes to kids whose calendars are marked by the days until the next holiday, parents quickly begin to hear the phrase “I’m bored”, with those remaining moments of winter vacation. Instead of feeling down, take advantage of this time of year with 5 ways to combat the post- holiday blues:
1. Out with the old, in with the new: A great activity for the whole family is to have kids clean out their rooms. With lots of new toys having 
just arrived, have kids get rid of old toys as well as clothes to make room for their new ones. You can then, as a family, take the toys to a donation center which is also a great way to ‘go green’ and teach your children the spirit of giving back.
2. Continue the season of giving: There are many people in need at all times of the year, not just during the holidays. Try volunteering as a family at a soup kitchen, community organization, or make a baked food donation with kids to take a homeless shelter.
3. Take advantage of the season: If you live near snow or other seasonal outdoor opportunities, take advantage! Sledding, skiing, or even building a snowman can brighten up a winter day along with getting some fresh air and exercise.
4. Keep contacts: Just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean you need to wait another year to get together with beloved friends and family. Make a point to keep those connections throughout the year even with a simple, casual get together by including extended family and friends in any of the activities listed here.
5. Make a bucket list: Instead of the ever popular New Year’s Resolution, try making a “bucket list” of things you would like to do as a family over the course of the next year or even the next few months. This will give you lots of new activities to look forward to.
