5 Ways to Reconnect with Your Kids During the Holidays

Updated – Originally published December 14, 2021

The holidays can feel frantic. Ironically, it can be easy for family connections to take a back seat to all the events and celebrations going on. But making time to reconnect with your kids is more important than ever. 

By intentionally creating space for meaningful interactions, parents can foster deeper relationships and stronger bonds with their children.

How To Spend Quality Time with Family

Spending quality time with family is one of the most valuable ways to build strong relationships and create lasting memories. Whether it’s through daily routines or special activities, prioritizing time together strengthens bonds and brings a sense of closeness that nothing else can replace. Here are some effective tips to help your family reconnect this holiday season.

1. Limit Screen Time (Including Parents)

In today’s tech-saturated world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of allowing screens to consume family time. Limiting screen time is not just about reducing digital overload, it’s a powerful way for parents to reconnect with their children on a deeper, more meaningful level.

Communicate Screen Time Limits 

Start by having open conversations about why screen time limits are important. Explain to your kids that it’s not about taking away their fun, but about spending more quality time together. Involve them in setting these limits so they feel included in the decision-making process, which can reduce resistance and make them more mindful about their own habits.

Set the Example 

Beyond setting boundaries, parents must also lead by example. If children see their parents constantly glued to a phone or TV, they will be less likely to adhere to the screen time rules. Demonstrating self-control and prioritizing family interaction over digital devices sends a strong, lasting message. 

When parents put their phones away during meals or family activities, they show that face-to-face connection is more valuable than anything happening on a screen. This creates space for more engaging conversations, shared experiences, and bonding moments that screens can’t replicate.

By modeling healthy digital habits and fostering open communication, parents can create an environment where everyone feels more connected, both emotionally and physically, helping kids learn balance and prioritizing family time.

2. Ask The Family For Ideas

One of the best ways to ensure everyone is on board with limiting screen time is to involve the whole family in the process. Instead of simply setting rules, ask your kids and other family members for ideas on what they’d like to do together without screens. By including them in brainstorming, you empower your children to take ownership of the activities and help shape family time in a way that excites everyone.

You might be surprised by the creativity that emerges — whether it’s organizing a family talent show, planning a themed dinner night, or working together on a home project. Asking for input not only makes screen-free time more fun and inclusive, but it also strengthens family bonds by showing your kids that their opinions matter.

Additionally, this collaborative approach reinforces the idea that everyone plays a role in shaping how you spend time together. The process itself can become a great conversation starter, opening up channels of communication and fostering a team spirit within the household. 

3. Find Screen-Free Activities

One of the best ways to limit screen time and reconnect with your kids is by participating in fun, engaging activities. Especially during colder months, when the temptation to lounge with a tablet or TV can be high, it’s important to have a variety of screen-free options on hand. Crafting, building forts, playing board games, or even baking together are great ways to keep kids entertained while nurturing creativity and family connection.

If you’re stuck for ideas, check out our winter activities article for more inspiration. You’ll find plenty of screen-free activities that are perfect for cold-weather days. 

These activities not only help break the screen habit but also foster teamwork, creativity, and shared experiences. By intentionally planning your day with fun alternatives to screen time, you can create memorable moments that bring the whole family closer.

4. Establish Family Traditions

Creating regular rituals or traditions, whether big or small, helps build a sense of belonging and shared identity within the family. This could be as simple as a bedtime snuggle and chat, weekly family game night, cooking a meal together on the weekend, or taking a seasonal nature walk. 

Traditions give everyone something to look forward to and provide consistent opportunities for connection. Over time, these shared experiences become cherished memories that strengthen family bonds.

5. Leave Work at Work

In our always-on culture, it can be difficult to truly disconnect from work, especially with emails and messages just a tap away. But to reconnect with your kids, it’s essential to leave work at work — both physically and mentally. Bringing job-related stress home or constantly checking your phone for updates can send the message that work is more important than family time. This not only creates distance between you and your children but also reinforces the idea that being glued to a screen is acceptable.

Instead, set clear boundaries for yourself by designating work-free zones and times at home. After work, make a conscious effort to put your phone or laptop away and fully engage with your kids. Whether it’s during dinner, game night, or a simple conversation, give them your undivided attention. When you’re present and fully involved in their lives, it signals to your kids that they matter most, fostering a sense of security and connection.

Reconnecting with your kids doesn’t have to be complicated. By keeping it simple, being intentional with your time, and giving your children the attention they crave, you’ll naturally build stronger bonds. 

Whether it’s through limiting screen time, finding fun activities, or simply listening to their ideas, your efforts to reconnect will pay off in meaningful ways. Remember, it’s the little moments of presence and connection that matter most.

What works best for your family? Share your favorite tips and ideas in the comments below — we’d love to hear how you’re reconnecting with your kids!