I won't lie. Part of me dreads the approaching holidays and inevitable winter break that my children will have from school. Trying to find activities that will keep the kids occupied and out of your hair so you can get some work done or at least keep the house from being destroyed, can be really hard! Especially when every other phrase out of their mouths is "We're Bored!" KinderCare Learning Centers are offering parents a fun alternative this year though, with their Winter Science Camp program.



{About KinderCare Winter Science Camp}

"The secret's about to get out: science is a blast! At the end of December, 1600 KinderCare Learning Centers across the U.S. transform into Winter Science Camps that give preschoolers through school-agers a chance to unlock the mysteries of the natural world. Split into eight 1-day segments to better meet the needs of busy families staying in town for the holidays, Winter Science Camp uses age-appropriate activities and a lively, hands-on approach to get kids excited about what they're learning. From fish to flowers, from robots to recycling-each center's camp covers chemistry, earth science, and physics."

This sounds like a blast and I know it is something that my boys would personally enjoy. It allows them to be creative, busy and to directly interact with the experiments! To find a location near you, you can check out the "Find a Center" tool.

{KinderCare Tips for Winter Reading and Play Time}


As you bundle up against the cold at home, try snuggling up with the kids and a good book. Reading to your kids and having them read to you is a great way to encourage your child to foster a love of reading and become a strong reader as they grow up. KinderCare offers parents a free comprehensive reading guide that is divided into age group and gives helpful tips for getting your children interested in reading!

Just because it may be too cold to spend time playing outdoors, doesn't mean play time has to be boring and dull. KinderCare offers parenting these helpful tips to make play time indoors more fun!

• For infants, playing peek-a-boo will help baby recognize your voice.
• To help infants and toddlers develop fine motor skills, provide a variety of soft, easy-to-grasp toys, such as soft blocks or plush toys.
• Blow bubbles with your child and watch them have a blast as they chase and catch the bubbles  - both reinforce motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

{About KinderCare}

"With more than 1,600 centers located in 39 states and the District of Columbia, KinderCare Learning Centers, an accredited early childhood provider, offer a range of educational programs and after-school care for infants as young as six weeks old to school-aged children through age 12. For more information, visit www.KinderCare.com."

  * I received a $25 gift card in return for posting this editorial on KinderCare Winter Science Camp, but all words, thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely my own.