Soon your house may be feeling more hectic than holiday as schools and daycares close for the Christmas break. With kids underfoot and a million and one things to do before you can relax, we know you’ll need a little help to get that to-do list knocked off. Outdoors fun is always a good option, but with the cold temps and blustery winds Toronto’s been getting recently, the wee ones won’t last long out there. These entertaining indoor activities will keep the little ones busy (and warm) so you can finish your holiday prep in peace. Happy holidays to you!

art in a jar: Take a large, clear plastic container with a lid and add construction paper, tape, stickers, feathers, buttons, ribbon, popsicle sticks, glue, crayons, non-permanent markers, and pipe cleaners. Guaranteed free time for you, and creative time for the kids!

edible creations: Add 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of powdered milk, and 2 TBSP of honey, and mix together to form dough. Bring out the holiday cookie cutters to make festive creations. Perfect for busy hands and hungry tummies!

good for the senses: Lay a plastic sheet on the table and set out large pieces of paper. Let the younger kids play and paint with colored shaving foam or chocolate pudding. Or fill a few plastic bottles with water, food coloring and sparkles and watch their eyes light up!

custom cards: Get in the holiday spirit and knock a to-do off your list by having the kids decorate thank you cards to send out after the gifts are opened.

frosty fun: Bring in pans of snow and let the kids build mini snowmen right at the kitchen table! Use chocolate chips for eyes and buttons, a baby carrot for the nose, pretzels for arms, and ribbon for the scarf. They can be stored in the freezer or put outside when finished.

tickle trunk: Never underestimate the power of a trunk filled with old clothes, hats, shoes, and other dress-up supplies. Perfect for passing an afternoon away!