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It’s that weird time between Christmas and New Year’s—presents are unwrapped, cookies are long gone, and the kids are climbing the walls with boredom. You’re probably thinking, “What now?” Don’t worry—Royalmont Academy has your back with 10 exciting after Christmas activities for kids to keep your family engaged, burn off energy, and bring a little fun (and calm!) to your holiday break.

1. All Aboard at EnterTRAINment Junction

If you haven’t been yet, now’s your chance! EnterTRAINment Junction features the world’s largest indoor train display, interactive exhibits, and model trains galore. It’s perfect for a low-key day of discovery, especially for kids who love to explore how things work. Hurry because this attraction will close on January 5. Bonus: it’s indoors, so no need to brave the cold!

2. Winter Wonderland Fun at Kings Island WinterFest

WinterFest at Kings Island runs through New Year’s Eve, making it a perfect way to squeeze in one more dose of holiday magic. Stroll through millions of twinkling lights, enjoy festive rides, and cozy up with some hot cocoa while you soak in the last days of 2024.

3. Take a Twinkling Lights Tour Before They’re Gone

Even though Christmas is over, many of Cincinnati’s best light displays stay up until New Year’s! Bundle up the kids, fill a thermos with hot chocolate, and visit spots like:

• Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo
• Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park
• Coney Island’s Christmas Nights of Lights

This is an easy, low-cost way to savor the magic of the season a little longer.

4. Cooking Together: A Fun After Christmas Activity for Kids

It’s the perfect time to get kids involved in the kitchen and teach them life skills while having fun. Skip the sugary baking and focus on family dinners they can help make. Here are some easy, hearty winter dinner ideas:

1. Crockpot Chili Night (Slow Cooker Chili) – A hearty, crowd-pleasing recipe kids can help prep.
2. Baked Pasta Casserole (Easy Baked Ziti) – A quick alternative to lasagna that’s just as satisfying.
3. Homemade Pot Pies (Mini Chicken Pot Pies) – Perfect for little hands to help assemble.
4. Soup and Sandwich Night (Classic Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese) – A timeless combo that’s simple and cozy.
5. Build-Your-Own Tacos (Simple Taco Bar Recipe) – Every kid loves tacos.

5. Creative After Christmas Activities for Kids: Cards and Art

If visiting a nursing home isn’t feasible, your kids can still brighten someone’s day by creating thoughtful cards or artwork to send. A heartfelt note or cheerful picture can mean the world to a resident. Gather your family, break out the markers and stickers, and let the creativity flow!

Here are addresses for local nursing homes where you can send your cards:

• Mason Health Care Center
  5640 Cox-Smith Road
  Mason, OH 45040
• Chesterwood Village
  8073 Tylersville Road
  West Chester, OH 45069
• Otterbein Lebanon SeniorLife Community
  585 North State Route 741
  Lebanon, OH 45036
• Otterbein at Maineville
  201 Marge Schott Way
  Maineville, OH 45039

Encourage your kids to write uplifting messages or draw winter-themed pictures to bring smiles to the residents.

6. Get Crafty—Just for Fun!

After Christmas, crafting isn’t about gifts; it’s about having fun and being creative. Try these simple ideas:

• Build a Bird Feeder – Recycle materials like milk cartons or toilet paper rolls – A great way to help local birds and get creative.
• Salt Painting – Combine salt, glue, and watercolor paint – A fun and unique art project that’s perfect for kids.
• Slime-Making – A little messy but endlessly entertaining– Kids will love this hands-on activity.

7. Nature Walks: Clear Your Head

A brisk walk can work wonders for cabin fever, and the Cincinnati area is full of family-friendly trails:

• Pine Hill Lakes Park in Mason
• Voice of America MetroPark in West Chester
• Little Miami Scenic Trail near Lebanon

Encourage your kids to spot wildlife or collect winter treasures like pinecones and leaves for crafting later.

8. Faith-Filled Family Time at Church

As the calendar flips to a new year, it’s a great time to reconnect with your faith. Many churches offer events this week:

• St. Maximilian Kolbe Church – Attend Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God on January 1.
• St. Susanna Church – Check their schedule for holiday confession and Mass times.

These moments of reflection can help you and your family start the year grounded and grateful.

9. Game Night Fun for Everyone

Break out the board games or try something new! Here are a few crowd-pleasers:

• Exploding Kittens  Silly fun that’s easy for all ages – A wildly popular and hilarious card game.
• Codenames A favorite for older kids and teens– Perfect for family teamwork and strategy.
• Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza  Hilarious and fast-paced – Quick rounds that keep everyone laughing.
• Pair games with some popcorn, and you’ve got a stress-free, laugh-filled evening.

10. Movie Night with a Faith-Filled Twist

End the day with a cozy family movie night featuring inspiring, faith-based films:

1. The Star (Netflix) – A whimsical retelling of the Nativity story.
2. God’s Not Dead (PureFlix) – Thought-provoking and encouraging for older kids.
3. Woodlawn (Amazon) – A sports drama with a powerful message of unity.
4. War Room (Amazon) – A story of faith and the power of prayer.
5. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (Disney+) – Full of adventure and faith-based themes.

Note: Royalmont Academy has not previewed these movies. Watch with parental discretion. 

Keep the Fun Going with Royalmont Academy

Turn your family’s break into meaningful memories with these fun and engaging after-Christmas activities for kids. With a little creativity, you can turn these days into memories your family will treasure. At Royalmont Academy, we integrate this kind of meaningful fun into our mission of forming well-rounded individuals all year long. Ready to learn more? Schedule a visit today and see the difference our school can make for your family.