School Break Is Here: Don't Stress... Deploy the Activities!

School break is here, and while some parents are stressing, we're like Drake courtside at an NBA game. We remember being younglings and getting that much needed break for fun, and we had a blast. While gaming played it's part in our activities, we can't forget about those other indoor and outdoor activities that kept us busy when we weren't... sleeping in. School breaks are a great time for kids to relax, have fun, and explore new activities. Here are some engaging and enjoyable activities for kids to do during their school break... when they aren't sleeping in (giving you an extended breather). When it comes to this list of suggested activities, may it also assist you in determining the best gifts for your younglings, and if you grab something... call it an early gift. Just FYI... this is NOT the official Wishmas list for Younglings!

Indoor Activities

1. Arts and Crafts: Encourage creativity with painting, drawing, or making DIY crafts. Projects like creating holiday decorations or making friendship bracelets can be both fun and rewarding.
   
   

2. Reading: Visit the local library or create a cozy reading nook at home. Choose a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novels to keep things interesting. (Ask the librarians if they have any available activities or calendar events as well.)

3. Cooking and Baking: Get kids involved in the kitchen by making simple recipes together. Baking cookies, pies, making homemade pizza, or preparing a family meal can be a fun and educational experience. Who knows, you could have a future chef on your hands. Amazon Fresh has plenty of deals right now. This is my shopping cart with over a weeks worth of food for about 2 people (including eggs 18 for $4.79):
   

   

4. Board Games and Puzzles: Spend quality time playing board games or working on puzzles. These activities can help develop problem-solving skills and encourage family bonding. Older children may appreciate the challenge of the 3D puzzles.
   

   
   R2-D2 Puzzle $6.79 for a limited time!

5. Science Experiments: Conduct simple science experiments at home. Projects like making a volcano, creating slime, or growing crystals can be both educational and entertaining.

6. Gaming: While this one of the activities we recommend, limiting game time would allow your children to have a well rounded schedule. Gaming could fall in place where you need it most if you're strategic.
   
   

Outdoor Activities

1. Nature Walks and Hikes: Explore local parks, nature trails, or beaches. Bring along a nature journal to document interesting plants, animals, and insects you encounter.

2. Sports and Games: Organize a game of soccer, basketball, or frisbee with friends and family. Outdoor sports are a great way to stay active and have fun.

3. Gardening: Start a small garden or plant flowers in the yard. Gardening can teach kids about responsibility and the importance of caring for the environment.
   

4. Lunch at the park: Pack up a delicious lunch and head to a nearby park. Enjoying a meal outdoors can be a refreshing change of pace and a great way to spend time together. Search for parks in your area, there may be some that you're unaware of.

5. Biking: Go for a bike ride around the neighborhood or on a designated bike trail. It's a fun way to explore and get some exercise.

6. Visit Family + Friends: Like many plan to do during this break, it doesn't hurt to visit family & friends for some fun. This doesn't cancel out the activities, but you can consider this a nice combo to dial up the fun.
   
   

Creative Activities

1. Music and Dance: Have a dance party at home or learn to play a musical instrument. Music and dance can be a great way to express creativity and burn off energy. Just Dance 2025 is on sale for $29.99.

2. Theater and Drama: Put on a play or skit with friends or family. Create costumes, write a script, and perform for an audience.

3. Photography: Give kids a camera or smartphone and let them explore photography. Encourage them to take pictures of interesting subjects and create a photo album or scrapbook.
   
   

Educational Activities

1. Visit Museums and Zoos: Take a trip to a local museum, zoo, or aquarium. These outings can be both fun and educational, providing opportunities to learn about history, science, and wildlife.

2. Online Learning: Explore educational websites and apps that offer interactive learning experiences like the PBS Kids app. Subjects like math, science, and language arts can be made fun with the right resources also. If you want your kids to learn more of a course that can seriously put them on the road for a career, here are some discounted courses from Udemy (for kids)!

3. DIY Projects: Work on DIY projects like building a birdhouse, creating a scrapbook, or making homemade gifts. These activities can teach valuable skills and provide a sense of accomplishment. The Dollar Tree has plenty of Arts & Crafts.
   

By incorporating a mix of indoor, outdoor, creative, and educational activities into the school break schedule with game time, kids can have a well-rounded and enjoyable school break. Here's a free... simple calendar template if needed (from 101 Planners): Image File or PDF File

 + Sophi 

Support us below!

Movies + TV + Music + Sports + Luna + Xbox!

Ever wanted to make money out of thin air? This is close.

Cover the cost of your pc, console, games, or... whatever!

Summer Family Fun + Games!

What do you get when you mix fun + marshmallows + ginger ale + and mustard? Something disgusting, but... you know what's not disgusting? Having a great Summer!

Summer shouldn't be solely about gaming, even though we recommend that it be on the activity list... but there are other things to enjoy. Get crafty, game on, and have some fun... under the sun! I'll kick this post off with a dose of gaming... crank up the speakers and enjoy!

Arts & Crafts don't have to be the same old same old... there are plenty of Printables from Play Nintendo that your children can enjoy. Check these out (many more where these came from):

Pikmin coloring pages:

Powered up activities:

Pikmin...in color!:

Up and away! Paper Mario Airplane:

Print & play with Peach activity book:

Printable Mario & Luigi Masks (Adult required):

Print & Play Princess Peach Crown: (Adult required):

DK dress-up fun! (Adult required):

Paper Pikmin (Adult required):

Stage Craft (Adult required):

Kicking it with Mario:

Wario 'stache mask (Adult assistance required):

If you serve up these activities to your kids once per day, you're looking at nearly a month or so worth of arts and crafts for them to enjoy. Grab crayons or coloring pencils, scissors, print... and dig in! Whether these activities are done at home, vacation or staycation... they're a perfect fit.

 Fun and Affordable Summer Activities for Families in Orlando, Florida 

Orlando, Florida, is renowned for its world-class theme parks, but there’s so much more to explore, especially for families looking for fun and affordable summer activities (even though those usually traveling to Orlando are here for the theme parks). On the most affordable note though, here are some top picks that won’t break the bank:

Crayola Experience Orlando

Located at The Florida Mall, the Crayola Experience is a vibrant, interactive attraction where creativity knows no bounds. Families can enjoy hands-on activities, from making personalized crayons to exploring the color playground. It’s a colorful adventure that kids and adults alike will love.

Fun Spot America Theme Parks

Fun Spot America offers a variety of thrilling rides and attractions, including multi-level go-kart tracks, a wooden roller coaster, and a splash pad. The best part? Admission is free for non-riders, and parking is also complimentary. It’s a perfect spot for a day of excitement without the hefty price tag.

WonderWorks Orlando

This “amusement park for the mind” features over 100 interactive exhibits that blend education and entertainment. From a ropes course to a 6D motion ride, WonderWorks offers endless fun for the whole family. It’s an affordable way to spend a day exploring and learning.

Lake Eola Park

In the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is a serene escape with plenty of activities for families. Enjoy a picnic by the lake, feed the swans, or take a leisurely paddleboat ride. The park also hosts free concerts and events throughout the summer, making it a great spot for budget-friendly fun.

Leu Gardens

For nature lovers, Leu Gardens offers 50 acres of beautiful gardens and landscapes. Admission is free on the first Monday of each month, providing an affordable way to explore the diverse plant collections and enjoy a peacefulday outdoors.

Central Florida Springs

Cool off from the summer heat by visiting one of Central Florida’s natural springs. Places like Wekiwa Springs and Blue Spring State Park offer refreshing swimming spots, kayaking, and scenic trails. Admission fees are minimal, making it a cost-effective family outing.

Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is a fantastic destination for curious minds. With interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, and a planetarium, it’s both educational and entertaining. The center often offers discounted admission days, so keep an eye out for deals.

Disney Springs

While visiting the major theme parks can be pricey, Disney Springs offers a taste of Disney magic without the high cost. Stroll through the shops, enjoy live entertainment, and indulge in delicious treats. It’s a fun way to experience the Disney atmosphere on a budget. 

By the way, you can do something additional with this. You can resort hop... just take a free boat, bus, or monorail to the various Disney resorts and immerse yourself without an official resort stay. You can enjoy the atmosphere, the foods, as well as the desserts while being outside only during your transportation.

Big Tree Park & N Mills Ave

Not only do you have a park in this area, but it's right next to North Mills Avenue. This particular road isn't exactly a place presented to tourist, but it's a strip full of restaurants that also contains bars for those looking for that sort of thing.

Splash Pads and Playgrounds

Orlando is home to numerous splash pads and playgrounds that are perfect for cooling off and having fun. Many local parks offer these amenities for free, making them an excellent option for families looking to enjoy the outdoors without spending a lot. Lake Lorna Doone Park is one example of a park with a Splashpad, but... there is more than one option + some resorts have splash pads or mini waterparks.

Dezerland Park Orlando

Dezerland Park is Florida’s largest indoor attraction, offering a wide range of activities for families. Enjoy thrilling go-karting, explore the extensive Orlando Auto Museum, play boutique bowling, immerse yourself in The Pinball Palace, bounce at Jump Start Trampoline, and engage in black light combat with gel blasters in Toxic Blast. With so many unique attractions under one roof, Dezerland Park guarantees a day full of fun and excitement for everyone. Dezerland Deals.

Orlando offers a wealth of affordable activities for families to enjoy during the summer. From interactive museums and natural springs to vibrant parks and free events, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags, gather the family, and get ready to explore all that Orlando has to offer without breaking the bank. Even if you plan to only go to the parks a portion of the time... you can utilize these other options as fun fillers. Dezerland gives you a place to get out of the sun, rain, and it's open at night. Now let's jump into portable gaming!

 Why Handheld Gaming Devices Are Perfect for a Summer Vacation 

Summer vacations are all about the relaxation, adventure, and making the most of your free time between travel. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, traveling to a new destination, or simply enjoying a staycation, handheld gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and MSI Claw can enhance your summer experience.

Handheld gaming devices are designed to be portable, making them ideal for travel. The Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and MSI Claw are compact and lightweight, allowing you to easily slip them into your backpack or carry-on luggage. This means you can enjoy your favorite games whether you’re on a plane, at the beach, or at a fly resort. 

So you get the portability + convenience, the ability to connect to a resort TV if you want to use a bigger screen, you can jump online if you have internet access as well. By the way, even if you don't have internet access... you can still enjoy multiplayer on all three of these devices. Off top, you will be able to play multiplayer offline the easiest on the Nintendo Switch, you don't have to worry about using internet/hotspot or Ad-Hoc between two devices. 

If there are more than two gamers, the ease of connecting is even better with the Nintendo Switch and some games give you the ability to play together by way of only one person owning the game. Nevertheless, if you only have one handheld device on deck, and 4 controllers are available... you can still enjoy multiplayer action on these devices (preferably on a big screen). 

So take advantage of the versatility during your travels, fun it up, eat well, create some great memories and... game on!

 + Sophima 

Support us below!

Gaming Hardshell Travel Backpack (TSA Friendly)

Save Star Orlando

2023 Wishmas Guide... for Younglings!

 

It's that special time of year again... you're scratching your head wondering what you can get for your youngling, nieces, nephews, or a kid who simply deserves a nice gift. No need to worry ladies and gentlemen... the 2023 Wishmas Guide is here to erase the guessing games! Grab your cup of hot sip-worthy goodness... and get your click & scroll on!

Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle: This Switch bundle includes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe + 3 months of Nintendo Switch Online. This gift will provide kids with an immersive and interactive gaming experience for on-the-go enjoyment and fun on the big screen. Great option for family fun!

Coding kits: As the importance of coding grows, giving kids coding kits will help them develop their problem-solving and logical thinking skills from an early age.

Robotic pets: Robotic pets are becoming more sophisticated and lifelike. They provide companionship and are a great way for kids to learn about responsibility. This particular robot is Eilik.

 Miko 3 is also a great option.

STEM building kits: Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) building kits enable kids to learn while having fun. These kits encourage creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Smartwatches for kids: Smartwatches designed specifically for kids with GPS tracking, educational apps, and parental controls are a practical and trendy gift.

Awesome storybooks: Storybooks with great artwork and storylines make reading more engaging, and a nice collection should foster a love for reading.

Art and craft kits: Encouraging creativity and imagination through art and craft kits is a timeless gift idea. These kits provide all the necessary materials for kids to explore and create their own masterpieces. The kit seen here has a convertible easel to draw both flat or at an angle.

Educational subscription boxes: Monthly subscription boxes that deliver educational activities and experiments are a great way to keep kids engaged and learning throughout the year.

Outdoor adventure gear: A gift promoting outdoor exploration, such as camping equipment, bicycles, or scooters, encourages physical activity and helps kids appreciate nature. The Docyke Electric Go Kart Kit is a constructible vehicle that allows your kids and teens to build their vehicle of choice. Great for children interested in mechanics.

Musical instruments: Musical instruments promote a love for music and creativity. Whether it's a guitar, keyboard, or drum set, learning to play an instrument can provide lifelong enjoyment and skills.

Work desks: Desks are a worthwhile consideration this year as parents look for options to promote fun learning and exploring in the world of tech, a desk gives your Youngling the workspace to avoid their experiments from covering the surfaces in the common area. There are great Black Friday deals at the moment.

Sophima | Guest Contributor

                          + BLU 

Support us via the helpful links below!

The Cushion Designed for Gaming!