The Christmas holidays abound with opportunities to expose your children to some unique learning situations and environments.

With already crowded schedules, how do you make time for one more thing? Planning is the key. Also, you may want to re-schedule some of your textbook work for after the holidays. You are not neglecting it—just rearranging your schedule to make the most of the unique opportunities presented by the holidays.

1. Literature

Choose a classic literature selection that is appropriate for the holidays.  Here are just a few ideas from which to choose. The reference librarian in your public library can help you with other suggestions.

•                  A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
•                  The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans
•                  “The Gift of the Magi,” a short-story by O’Henry
•                  The Book of Isaiah (in the Old Testament)                                                                   

Read one or more of these books aloud, together as a family. With a little creativity and imagination, you can make these very special times and memories for your children. Last year, as a family, we read The Christmas Box in one sitting, gathered around the fireplace. We took turns reading chapters, until the book was completed. Reading aloud together creates a unique, and rather unexpected, bond as you all enjoy a literary work together.