Your tween is growing up, and may not be as interested in family traditions as he was just a few years ago. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy holidays and seasons with your older child. In fact, there are plenty of ways to celebrate throughout the year with your tween. Below are just a few to get you started on family fun.
Winter is the time when we cozy up to the fire and a mug of hot chocolate. It is fun to watch movies on a cold day, or play board games all
weekend when there's nothing else going on. But there are
other fun winter activities for you and your tween to enjoy. Just grab your coat, a hat and some gloves and have a great time.
Tweens may not hand out Valentine cards at school any more, but it's still a fun holiday for older kids. Celebrate at home by showing your child how much you love him. Then, consider spreading the fun around a little, whether it's at school, or at an after school activity.
Easter is a special time of year for Christians, and it's also a time when many people welcome the change of seasons. Warmer weather, flowers and bright colors are more than welcome after a few months of snow and cold weather. Welcome the Easter season with a few fun ideas for older children, or kids at heart.
Get ready for Earth Day, go a little greener, enjoy nature and have fun this
Spring with your tween. After all, the hot temperatures of summer are just around the corner, so make the most of Spring while you still can.
What child doesn't look forward to summer vacation? But the summer months can seem like a lifetime for children who are easily bored and crave activity and fun. If your child is always saying, "I'm bored!" it's time to make a few suggestions to get your child in gear. Look to your local library, parks and recreation department and even area schools for activities and camps. In addition, be sure your child has plenty to read, and spends time outdoors and away from the television as much as possible.
Tweens love Halloween and look forward to it all year long. Help your child plan the Halloween season this year. Think about decorating, parties and putting a costume together a few weeks before the big evening. If you're up for it, consider a party for your child and his friends, especially if they're no longer allowed to trick-or-treat in your neighborhood.
Don't let Thanksgiving go by without including your child in the fun and preparation. Put your tween in charge of making the Thanksgiving centerpiece, or ask your child to prepare the appetizer or dessert. Or, work together to put the meal on the table. Being together is what it's all about.
Even if your child no longer believes in Santa, the holidays are an important time of year for many families. The good news is you can put your tween to work to help prepare for the season. Consider allowing your tween to wrap, bake and decorate.
Now that your child is older he can probably stay up to welcome in the New Year. Let him enjoy the festivities with his friends by throwing a New Year's party for tweens.
