Holiday Humbugs at Home?

It's that time again that most parents secretly dread: the kids are on winter break.

Two whole weeks of  "Mom, I'm soooooooo bored," "Mom, I need more batteries," and "Mom, I broke this new $375 toy that dad spent hours scouring the mall for and then elbowed some woman in line to purchase."

Yes, its that time of year again. So what to do with the kiddos and the visiting college kids? First, start off by teaching them the value of that $375 broken toy.

Some Quick Ideas

KinderCare Learning Center is hosting a "Giving Tree" for Orangewood Children's Foundation. Located in Santa Ana, the Orangewood Children's Foundation is a safe place for children in the foster care system. Orangewood's vision: "To eliminate child abuse and neglect in Orange County by promoting efforts and services that encourage strong, healthy families and supportive communities."

You and your kids can help support the vision several ways:

Drop by the and drop off a new, unwrapped toy to be given to the kids living at Orangewood. The "Giving Tree" will be up until the Dec. 23, so there is still plenty of time. Or, if you want  to donate your time, contact Orangewood for weekly volunteer opportunities such as helping at mealtime or distributing donations. 

Another great opportunity for the older kids is to volunteer with Mission Viejo Animal Services Center. This is a great way to get out of the house and do some good, while having a blast with your family and teaching your kids compassion about animals.

Our beloved Penny Lane came to us through Mission Viejo Animal Services located in Mission Viejo, also serving Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo and surrounding areas. Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is always looking for cat care volunteers, dog walkers and rabbit care assistants.

Or, use this week to make your kids clean out their toy boxes. I know that this time of year my house always seems to close in on me. There is no room after Hanukkah and Christmas; everywhere I go, I am surrounded by toys, games, candy and newfangled technology that I can't grasp. Encourage your children to make a clean break from all their older stuff while serving a great purpose, too.

Consider taking their gently used toys, clothes and games to the Mercy Warehouse at Vineyard Community Church. The church operates a warehouse that provides food to families without stable living arrangements, as well as a retail store that helps fund its program. The orgnaization can always use donations and helping hands.

However you spend these weeks with your family, I hope you enjoy them. Happy holidays!