For some kids, the change in routine can be really hard, but all kids deserve their well-earned break. We have come up with some tips to help winter break run smoothly.

Create A Routine For Break

The first step is to establish a routine your child will understand. Try to have a plan for each day and remind them of the plan throughout the day. A visual schedule is a great resource to create. Some kids do well with a picture schedule, and others do well with a list written on a dry-erase board.

Check out our previous blog about schedules here: https://blog.loveandcompanytherapies.com/2023/08/15/back-to-school-using-a-schedule-to-help-learn-routines/

Come Up With Planned Activities

Playing games, reading your favorite holiday books, baking, and holiday activities are great ways to spend winter break. Some holiday activities might be a little overwhelming. If you aren’t sure what to expect, it is always a good idea to call first and ask questions. If crowds are a concern, you can probably find out when are slow times.

Recipe: Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies

Try my visual recipe for a fun holiday spin on chocolate chip cookies! I wrote this for beginners, but if you have a favorite chocolate chip recipe or prefer sugar cookies you can adjust accordingly. Click below to download the recipe.

Christmas cookie recipe Download

Holiday Activities

Build a Duplo Gingerbread House

You can’t eat it, but you can build it again and again!

https://amzn.to/3GInAft

https://www.target.com/p/lego-duplo-santa-39-s-gingerbread-house-toy-10976/-/A-86050120

Build a Gingerbread House!

Target has a gingerbread house that is already standing if you are like me and can never get it to stand.

https://www.target.com/p/holiday-pre-built-gingerbread-house-kit-32-5oz-favorite-day-8482/-/A-86027188

Christ Community Presbyterian Church’s Respite Night

Need to Christmas shop without the kids? Check out Christ Community Presbyterian Church’s Respite Night on December 17th from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Please see the details on their flyer or contact them directly for information.

A Magical Snowy Wonderland

LAKESIDE VILLAGE

1479 Town Center Dr, Lakeland, FL 33803

Free event

A Magical Snowy Wonderland – Experience snow whirling around the Lakeside Village Christmas Tree at the top of the hour from 6-9 pm on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays from November 30 – December 23.

Santa & Mrs. Claus @ Lakeside Village

RESERVATION REQUIRED

EVENT DETAILS

Get ready for some festive fun with Free Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus – come meet the jolliest couple in town and capture magical memories.

Just to let you know, an appointment is required to help us limit the number of people in line and shorten your waiting time. Please visit the ticketing link on this page to secure your spot—one spot per family or group.

This event is absolutely FREE, but we kindly invite you to consider making a toy donation to support the RUDOLPH ROUND-UP HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE. We will have a collection box available on-site for your convenience.

Santa will be located – at 1473 Town Center Dr., Lakeland, FL 33803.

We will have a charming Christmas set for families to take photos with Santa safely. In an effort to allow as many people to see Santa as possible, each appointment is limited to around 3 minutes. For everyone’s safety, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and any other event staff are prohibited from touching guests’ phones.

12/16/2023-

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/738175060477?aff=oddtdtcreator

Christmas Eve At First Presbrytarian Church

First Presbyterian Church

175 LAKE HOLLINGSWORTH DRIVE LAKELAND, FLORIDA 33801

(863) 686-7187

December 24- Christmas Eve Morning Service @ 10:30 will have Mini Miracles child care available. Mini Miracles is a special needs ministry with professionals with expertise with children with disabilities so parents know their children will be well cared for, while they worship.

Childcare and Mini Miracles Information

Childcare available at the 10:30 am worship service. (Infant – Third Grade)

Mini Miracles (children with disabilities) are available only at the 10:30 am worship service.

Light Up BSP

Join Bonnet Springs Park for two enchanting evenings as we celebrate Light Up BSP in a sensory-friendly way!

Night 1: December 21st, 5:30 – 6:30PM

Sensory-Friendly Hour with Santa and Mrs. Claus

• Share your Christmas wish list in a welcoming environment.

• Explore Christmas sensory bins that engage the senses.

• Experience the magic of Light Up BSP in a quiet and low-sensory setting.

• Santa will be available until 8:30 PM for all guests.

Night 2: December 26th, 5:30 – 6:30PM

Sensory-Friendly Light Up BSP Event

• Enjoy a soft play playground designed for sensory delight.

• Create holiday crafts with sensory bins for added festive fun.

• Immerse yourself in the beauty of Light Up BSP in a quiet environment.

Additional resources like noise-dampening headphones and fidgets will be available. Both nights promise a warm and inclusive atmosphere for guests with neurodivergence or sensory sensitivities. Let’s celebrate the joy of the season together!