Things to do over the Christmas Holidays (Teens edition)

woman using a cookie cutter

With current Covid-19 restrictions in place and as we approach the upcoming holidays, you may be struggling to think of things to do BEYOND the screen. Not to fear, I have some ideas which may prove useful IF you give them a chance…

Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels.com

Firstly, lets start with Cosy Reading. There can be nothing better than a great book to read on a cold, blistery winter’s day. A book to transport you to far off places whilst you snuggle under a duvet. Not sure what to read? Try some of these…

A New York Times BEST SELLER written by the first niqabi to be added to the Forbes 30 under 30 list (Read more here).

With fierce characters, deathly challenges, and world-building both lyrical and spellbinding, We Hunt the Flame is unputdownable — Marieke Njikamp, #1 New York Times bestselling author

Aged just five, Saroo Brierley lost all contact with his family in India, after waiting at a train station for his brother who never returned. Discover the inspiring, true story of Saroo is the heart breaking and original tale of the lost little boy who found his way home twenty-five years later.

This is such an amazing and inspiring story, made me cry ALOT!

Next on to Audio Books. If words on a page aren’t your thing, audio books could be the answer. Use your holiday to listen to an awesome audio book. Audiobooks can be expensive, so why not try Audible for FREE for 30 days to see if you like it? Click here. Here are some suggestions for audiobooks to get you started…

Click on image to purchase

I really enjoyed the Book of Dust on Audible. The narration was wonderful and engaging.

Click on image to purchase

Try a new recipe and Bake! Why not get in the kitchen and prepare a treat for everyone? (Make sure you tidy up afterwards). Not sure what to bake? Have a go at these tried and tested recipes…

These are quick and you can keep the dough in your fridge for a week.

My go-to recipe when you have very ripe bananas sitting in your fruit basket is the Banana Bread below. TIP: Wait for bananas to be almost all black before you use them for baking. I often add chocolate chips and even chopped walnuts to this recipe. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/brilliant-banana-loaf

Take some Winter Walks. “There’s no such thing as bad weather – just unsuitable clothing” were the exact words spoken by our Forest School leader as I stood, shivering in Ham Common on a freezing December morning. I smiled and nodded and have carried this sentiment with me ever since (and often repeat it to my students!). Thus, I suggest, put on the layers (several layers are better than one thick, bulky item of clothing) and get outside! We do not get enough time outside (click here for some shocking stats). Wherever you live, you can find a walk which will rejuvenate and re-energise you, no matter what your mood. Don’t know where to walk ? Here are some trails for you to try out…

A trail in Hounslow. Click on image.
A trail in Bedfont. Click on image.
A trail in Uxbridge. Click on image.

and finally, when all else fails why not try watching something a bit different like…

His Dark Materials on BBC iplayer. Click on image
BBC Drama currently available on Netflix

Probably the best adaption of Austen’s book, I have just finished watching it with Year 10 who thoroughly enjoyed it.

I hope this list has given you some ideas on what you can do over the break. If you do try any of the above, let me know how you got on by leaving a comment below.

Do you have any recommendations?

Stay safe,

Ust Fouzia

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