Screens don't just have to be about zoning out. With a little intention, they can spark creativity, learning, and connection — even in the busiest holiday season. Here are some quick-hit ideas to make screens a tool instead of just entertainment.
These activities turn screen time into connection time, blend creativity with movement and family tradition, and keep privacy and age-appropriateness in mind.
🎶Create a Family Dance Challenge
- Pick a favorite holiday song and choreograph a simple dance together.
- Record it (and decide as a family whether to share it or just keep it private).
- Talk about privacy: "Videos can be fun to make — but we get to decide who sees them."
🎧Design a Family Playlist
- Let everyone contribute a song that makes them think of the holidays.
- Use it for cooking, decorating, or road trips.
- Quick parent tip: This is an easy way for kids to practice sharing preferences and compromise.
🎙Record a Family Podcast
- Choose a holiday theme — like favorite memories, stories from grandparents, or even silly jokes.
- Kids can take turns hosting, interviewing, or adding sound effects.
- Bonus: This builds narrative skills and keeps oral traditions alive.
🎥Make a Video Tutorial
- Film a short video of a favorite recipe, craft, or family tradition.
- Kids can practice explaining steps clearly, while parents model how-to thinking.
- Discuss audience: "Who would find this useful? Grandma? A friend? Other kids?"
✍️Write Reviews Together
- After trying a new game, visiting a holiday display, or opening presents, write (or dictate) a quick review.
- Ask: "What did you like most? What could be better?"
- This builds critical thinking and helps kids see media as something to evaluate, not just consume.
🎨AI-Assisted Creations (Optional)
- Try tools like ChatGPT (make a holiday poem), Suno (turn it into a song), or MidJourney (generate a festive illustration).
- Many of these platforms offer free trials before requiring subscriptions.
- Tip for young kids: Use descriptions ("a silly penguin in a Santa hat") instead of personal photos for privacy.