Holiday & Winter Break Readiness
In Howard County, MD
The holiday season and winter break can be a joyful time of family, rest, and celebration — but it often comes with a shift in routine that can feel unpredictable. At Your Journey School, we know that many families are balancing work, childcare, and preparations during this time. With a little planning, you can help your child, and your whole family, enjoy a smooth, meaningful winter break.
Plan Ahead: Communicate & Confirm Schedules
Before break begins, check in with Your Journey School about closures, holiday hours, or any special events for students. It’s helpful to know exactly when regular classes, before/after school care, or drop-in days will pause or resume. Planning early avoids last-minute stress and helps ensure childcare and family commitments remain manageable.
Keep a Balanced Routine — Even During Break
While holidays often bring changes, maintaining familiar rhythms helps children feel secure. Try to keep consistent sleep times, balanced meals, and maybe a regular “quiet time” or activity period during the day. This sense of routine helps children transition more smoothly back to school afterward.
Engage Kids with Fun, Meaningful Activities
Winter break can be a perfect opportunity for cozy, creative, and engaging activities at home. Think arts and crafts, simple holiday-themed projects, or board games. Reading together, baking, or even a family walk can bring together learning, connection, and holiday cheer. These simple routines help replace some of the structure they get at school — and make the break enriching rather than idle.
Use Holiday Time to Foster Family Connection and Kindness
Holidays offer a great chance to teach gratitude, empathy, and community. Consider helping your child pick out a small donation, volunteer, or create holiday cards for neighbors, friends, or extended family. These activities build values and help kids appreciate the spirit of the season.
With a bit of preparation — knowing the school’s schedule, keeping routines, and planning thoughtful activities — winter break can become more than just time off. At Your Journey School, we believe it’s a meaningful chance for families to grow, connect, and recharge together.
At Your Journey, we’ve created a helpful checklist for this holiday and winter season to help keep your family organized. If you’re not a currently enrolled family and you’re looking for a new school - please stop on by and take a tour! https://www.yourjourneyschool.com/
Holiday & Winter Break Readiness Checklist for Parents
□ Review Your Journey School’s holiday schedule and closure dates
□ Confirm childcare needs for workdays during break
□ Keep a consistent sleep and meal routine
□ Plan 2–3 simple at-home activities (crafts, games, reading time)
□ Schedule at least one family outing or walk (weather permitting)
□ Add a small kindness activity (cards, donation, helping a neighbor)
□ Prep for the return to school (backpacks, clothes, supplies)