December holidays often leave parents facing the ultimate balancing act: wrapping up year-end work commitments while keeping kids entertained and out of mischief.
It’s no surprise that for many families screen time becomes a necessary evil during this period.
According to Arno Jansen van Vuuren, MD at Futurewise, not all screen time needs to feel like a compromise. By choosing wisely, parents can turn screen time into an opportunity for kids to learn and grow.
“There are incredible tools and platforms out there that offer engaging, educational content that can actually benefit children while keeping them busy,” he says.
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Here are three activities to keep your kids entertained, happy and smarter this holiday season:
1. Learn to code with CodeSpark
“Coding is one of the most valuable skills a child can learn in today’s world,” says Jansen van Vuuren.
“And with CodeSpark, it feels like play rather than homework.”
Designed for kids aged five to 10, CodeSpark teaches the basics of coding through fun games and puzzles, building critical thinking and problem-solving skills along the way.
2. Create magic with virtual art classes
Unleash their inner artist with online art platforms that bring creativity to life.
Websites like YouTube Kids or resources such as Creative Bug offer step-by-step tutorials on everything from painting to crafting with everyday items.
Artistic projects don’t just keep kids occupied – they build fine motor skills, improve focus, and nurture creativity.
3. Explore the world with virtual tours
Turn your home into a gateway to the world with virtual museum tours or zoo livestreams.
Platforms like Google Arts & Culture or live feeds from zoos such as the San Diego Zoo offer an engaging way for kids to learn about art, history and wildlife – all without leaving the couch. It’s a perfect mix of education and exploration that sparks curiosity while keeping kids engaged.
“While managing work deadlines and keeping kids entertained is no easy feat, the right activities can make all the difference,” Jansen van Vuuren concludes.
“The key is to turn downtime into opportunities for growth and discovery. With a little planning and access to the right tools, parents can ensure their kids stay engaged and inspired this holiday season – no TV marathons required.”
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