Schmoozins

We all know this time of year because instead of that peaceful afternoon you were wishing for you hear mom! Being screamed from down the hall. Although it is nice to have the kids’ home, it can also be very expensive. After spending money on holiday gifts who wants to pay $10 every week for your kids to see a movie. Here are some
fun inexpensive ways to keep your kids entertained when school is out for the holidays.

1. Movies – This time of year is one of the biggest for the film industry. Many movies come out to the theaters but many also go to DVD. While your kids have been in school, they probably have wanted to see movies but there was just no time. Why not rent these movies for them now to catch up on. Netflix is a great way to rent movies and you can even get a free trial that lasts a month (just about, as long as your kids are home). Surprise them with having one movie night while they are home and go big. Have them pick the movie (even if it is about a talking animal) and get popcorn there. You can bring drinks and other snacks as long as you bring a big bag to put it all in. This way instead of going to the movies here and there spending a little bit at a time spend all at once and unbelievably you will save.

2. Christmas lights – People are decorating there homes like never before. Why not pile the family into the car, take a little drive through various neighborhoods, and look at the lights. Gas is expensive so do not drive to far but stay close. Have everyone rate the best houses when you are done and see what everyone thinks. Drive by various friends homes to see there decorations, it is always fun to see what your friends are doing.

3. Family Gathering – Bring the whole family together for some fun. If you bake cookies for the holidays bring the kids in to decorate them. Put some different colors of frosting on the table with some candy and sprinkles and let them do there thing. If you do not have the sweet tooth of a kid anymore, keep some to the side so you can do some yourself. After putting the Christmas tree up have everyone come together to help with the ornaments. If you have multiple boxes of ornaments give each one of your kids a different box and let them hang the ones the like where they want. If they are younger, you will probably have to help with the top.

4. Board Games – Every year more board games out with new creative ideas. Decide on a night that is good for everyone and make it game night. If your family does not own many games borrow some from friends or family, just make sure you return them with all the pieces. You could always buy one new board game each year and make this a family tradition. After a few years of this, you will have many games to choose from and eventually will not need to buy anymore. Many fun television game shows are also coming out with DVD games so if your family is visual pick one of those up. Family Feud is fun and to make teams invite another family over to play.