The new year is a fresh start, full of possibilities, and a perfect time to engage your kids in fun, meaningful activities that will make lasting memories. Whether you're stuck inside because of chilly weather or just looking for a way to make the most of family time, we've rounded up some exciting ideas that will keep your little ones entertained while celebrating the spirit of the new year. Here are some fun, kid-friendly activities to get the year started with joy, creativity, and lots of laughter!
Kid Friendly Activities to Start the New Year
1. Create a Family Vision Board
A vision board is a great way for kids to visualize their goals, hopes, and dreams for the year ahead. It’s a fun, creative activity that encourages positive thinking and can be a wonderful family bonding experience.
How to Do It:
- Gather magazines, pictures you have printed out, scissors, glue, and a large piece of poster board.
- Have your child cut out images and words that represent their hopes for the year ahead, like "adventures," "friendship," or "learning."
- Create a family vision board by adding your own images and ideas to share as a group.
This activity will give your child a sense of purpose and excitement about the new year, while also teaching them about goal-setting in a way that feels fun and creative.
2. New Year's Time Capsule
A New Year's Time Capsule is a fun way to capture memories and reflect on the year past. It's an exciting project that you can revisit together at the end of the year!
How to Do It:
- Find a small box or container that can be sealed shut.
- Have each family member write down a few things they are looking forward to in the new year, or include a small token or drawing to represent the year ahead.
- Seal it up and hide it somewhere safe. Plan to open it together next New Year's Eve to see how much has changed!
This is a wonderful way to foster reflection and gratitude while also adding an element of surprise when you open it the following year.
3. Creative Crafts for the New Year
Arts and crafts are a fantastic way to ring in the new year with your littles, while also engaging in a fun, hands-on activity. Crafting together can create lasting memories and give everyone something to look forward to in the coming year.
Craft Ideas:
These no-prep, printable activities are perfect for embracing the start of the new year and Winter season!
4. Winter Nature Walk and Scavenger Hunt
Even in the winter months, nature has plenty to offer. A Winter nature walk is a wonderful way to get outside, move your body, and disconnect from screens and re-connect with the world around you.
How to Do It:
- Bundle up for a winter walk in your neighborhood or at a local park.
- Create a scavenger hunt list with winter themed items for your child to look for, like pinecones, icicles, animal tracks, or a certain type of tree.
- As you explore, talk about the changes in nature during the winter season and encourage your child to notice the details around them.
This activity not only helps get some fresh air but also encourages curiosity and exploration, making it a great way to start the new year off on an active note. You can also collect these items and bring them home to make a sensory table!
5. New Year, New Habits: Digital Readers for On-the-Go Reading
This year, we’re using digital readers as an ideal solution for learning while on the move. Whether your little one is in the car during a road trip or waiting at the store, these easy digital downloadable readers allow your little one to stay entertained without the over stimulation of watching a show or playing a game.
Winter Readers:
Digital readers are compact and convenient, making them a great tool for those who want to maximize their reading time, no matter where they are.
Your Turn!
With these kid friendly activities to start the new year, you'll set the tone for a fantastic year filled with creativity, family moments, and a little bit of magic. Whether you're making a vision board, exploring the winter outdoors, crafting, or reflecting on the year ahead, there's no better way to start 2025 than by spending quality time with your child. Here's to a wonderful new year full of joy, growth, and learning!
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