By: Valarie Peritz
It’s that time of year again - winter vacation. Thankfully for us the weather outside isn’t too frightful, but let’s be honest, trying to keep the kids occupied for two weeks is intimidating enough to give Frosty the shivers. Like Rudolph, Andson is here to guide you through the holiday happenings, so you and your children stay merry and bright.
The mountains are just a hop, skip and a jump away - If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, you must head over to Mount Charleston. They’ve had a relatively dry season so far, but even without fresh snow, the mountains are still magical in the winter. It’s nearly 20 degrees cooler than the Valley, so you finally have a reason to break in that winter coat. Even if you can’t go sledding yet, there are still multiple hiking trails you can explore. Once your cool adventure is over, you can warm up with a cup of hot chocolate at the Lodge.
Goodwill is calling, answer - If those new toys and clothes have made your house feel stuffy, you can get your spring cleaning done a season early, while teaching your children about the season of giving. If they received new toys, have them find some old toys they don’t play with anymore. Likewise with old clothing. Put all the donations in a box or bag, and bring it down to your closest thrift shop. Your children will learn the true meaning of the season, and you’ll have a little elf to help you de-clutter.
Libraries aren’t just for reading anymore - It’s no secret Andson loves the Las Vegas Clark County Library District. If you haven’t checked out their services yet, put that at the top of your New Year’s resolutions. Each branch offers a range of activities, from karaoke, to stem learning, to crafts, and even puppet shows! Of course there are plenty of books to be read too. The library is a place to make memories with your whole family, just remember to use your indoor voice!
Swimming is so this season - Swimming in the brutal Vegas summer is a no-brainer, but swimming in the winter? That’s a story to tell. The Las Vegas Parks and Recreation offers a swimming pool that’s open year-round. If you have a mermaid or merman in your life, this is the perfect winter vacation. They’ll get to work out all their energy in the pool, and their friends will think they’re brave for bracing the frigid temps. As you’ve probably guessed, this pool is indoors so it’s are totally safe. The Pavilion Center pool is located at 101 South Pavilion Center Drive. It’s open to all ages Monday through Friday from 7am to 2:30pm. It will be closed now through Christmas, but it will reopen on December 26. It will also be closed for the New Years Holiday. Prices range from $2 to $3.
- Let’s get competitive - Getting children to pay attention to one task for more than an hour is daunting, but there’s nothing like a friendly competition to spark their interest. If your children are already tired of all the board games in your closet, challenge them to make a game of their own. Have them use their own toys to create characters, and allow them to make up their own rules. Once they have created a game, gather the whole family and play. The family time will bring everyone closer, and will make your children feel accomplished -- especially if they win at their own game.