Most schools are closed because of the winter vacation, and this is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your children. There are plenty of things that you and your family can do within the country, the city, and even in the comfort of your home without breaking the bank!

Domestic travels

With prices soaring globally, vacations are now more expensive than ever, especially international vacations. However, that should not stop you from planning trips within the country. You can visit places within Bangladesh, all those amazing destinations, the historic and scenic places that you have not explored yet. Go for day trips or one/two-night stays so the pressure on your wallet is not unbearable.

Domestic travelling is also a wonderful opportunity for your children to love, appreciate, and experience their own country.

Connect with extended family

We have become like machines, it's one task after another with little to no break in between. Relax this winter, take time off work, and connect with your extended family— grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins – in person. Perhaps plan a family picnic like the good old days. How will these benefit your child? One, your child will get to know his "big" family, and two, he will establish social bonds with people who can give him support and comfort during both good and bad times.

Studies show that youths are now lonelier than ever. Knowing and connecting with our extended family could tell our children that there are more people who love and care for them than they have ever thought!

Movie marathons

Make a cuppa for yourself and hot chocolate for your child, crawl under a blanket, and enjoy a family film. We suggest that you make a list of some must-watch films, especially the classics. We recommend Home Alone, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Elf, The Polar Express, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Jingle All the Way, The Santa Clause, etc. In my house, some of these films are watched every year during the winter holiday time; they never get old!

But, why enjoy movies only at home? Take your children to movie theatres, too, this winter holiday.

Board games

I still remember the unadulterated fun I had while playing chess, ludo, monopoly, and carrom matches against my parents, sibling, aunts, uncles, and cousins. When there were no internet and people were not staying hooked on their smartphone day and night, it was these board games which kept them from getting bored. The best thing about board games is that you cannot play them alone, meaning that these games bring people closer and create connections with friends and family.

Does your child know how to play chess yet? If not, consider teaching them the game this winter break. Chess helps children develop patience, creativity, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.

"Chess is the gymnasium of the mind," said Blaise Pascal, the influential 17th century French mathematician, and philosopher.

Art and crafts

The internet is full of art and craft ideas. Browse the internet and choose a few art and craft projects that you and your child can enjoy during the winter holiday time.

Art encourages problem-solving skills, creativity, and imaginative thinking — all of which are linked to long-term professional success!

This winter break, be messy. Bring out what you already have at home or make a small investment in drawing and painting materials, scissors, glue, strings, beads, buttons, fabric strips, multicolour paper, empty boxes, popsicle sticks, etc. and embark on art and craft projects with your children.

Your children will always cherish these beautiful bonding times with their parents; these activities may even become family traditions over time and pass down through generations!