5 Family-Friendly Ways to Find Joy in January

1-Winter Walks

I really feel like a brisk walk outdoors does wonders for a mood boost, even more so in the cold, crisp air. It doesn’t have to be a too long if you don’t like the cold, 20-30 minutes is enough to blow the cobwebs away. This also provides the opportunity to soak in some sunlight and Vitamin D! I look forward to a weekly walk with my lovely neighbour, it’s a time to chat, reflect and get some fresh air whilst getting our ‘steps’ in. Plan some simple family outings- whether it's just at the local park or at a beautiful frosty landscape, the simple act of wrapping up and getting out in the winter weather and scenery can be exhilarating, and can create lasting memories. Be sure to wrap up extra warm with enough layers, and take precautions when the ground is icy and slippy. 

2-The best way to spread January cheer is- Fairy lights!

I am not ashamed to say I totally embrace the Danish concept of ‘Hygge’. This can be done by creating a cosy space indoors with low light with plenty of blankets and cushions. Fairy lights can transform a room into a cosy haven, at least visually. I know this from experience, as a few years ago my daughter stayed in a live-in hospital room for around three months while undergoing a bone marrow transplant. The wonderful lady on the play team decorated her room with photos, cushions and fairy lights, to make it a comfortable and cosy space for her. It looked almost homely and inviting in comparison to the hospital rooms she’d been staying in during the months leading up to it. So yes, fairy lights are a must! When the absence of the Christmas tree leaves a space feeling a little bare, stringing lights across walls, picture frames or inside mason jars can add a touch of whimsy and festive nostalgia. Family nights in with blankets and favourite films are the way to go. Or invite extended family over for a night of board games. Make it intentional. A hygge-inspired environment can make the winter months feel inviting and enjoyable. 

3-Comfort food

January provides the perfect excuse to indulge in comforting homemade meals. Experiment with a new recipes or baking. Having four kids, I am all for quick, one pot, uncomplicated meals that don’t require much effort and that everyone enjoys. We have some fussy eaters in the house. The best kitchen appliance I’ve ever used is my soup maker, I use it at least twice a week. It’s super easy to have a healthy homemade soup in less than half an hour. Here is the link https://www.morphyrichards.co.uk/products/saute-soup-maker

Get the kids involved with cooking too! The aroma and warmth of a home -cooked meal can elevate your spirits and create a cosy atmosphere. 

4- Calming Indoor Activities

If you have very energetic little kids stuck indoors, messy play is a good way to keep them sitting still (for two minutes). Most kids love messy and sensory play, and there are loads of play dough recipes and other ideas online. My kids love kinetic sand, which is more like a dough than sand as you can squish and mold it into shapes without water and it creates minimal mess. It can be a relaxing activity to do on an evening as it encourages mindfulness. When I did a sleep course for one of my neurodiverse kids , this type of activity was recommended in the hour leading up to bedtime (you could also google search air doh infusions!).

See here https://www.kineticsand.com/

5-Go on a free day out 

Many museums in Yorkshire are free and a great way to spend an afternoon. Some ask for a small donation. The Royal Armouries, Leeds City Museum and Bagshaw Museum are some examples. My kids love the National Railway Museum in York (booking is recommended) . There have been a few changes since our last visit, including some optional additions to pay for and temporary closures in some parts, but it is still free to look around. (I have attached the links below if you’d like to visit and check). We typically take a picnic on a day out like this, but we like to treat ourselves to a coffee too, and cake for the kids. Check local museums for their schedules, and let your family to indulge in art, history, or science without breaking the bank. (It’s worth noting that most museums are closed on Mondays).

National Railway Museum - https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/visit

Bagshaw Museum (limited opening hours) - https://www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/museums-and-galleries/bagshaw-museum/plan-your-visit.aspx

Royal Armouries - https://royalarmouries.org/leeds

Leeds City Museum -https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/pQgdfm/leeds-city-museum/home

January may be associated with gloominess, but by prioritising family time and self care, we can turn January into a month filled with warmth and joy, and something to look forward to.

Let’s embrace the season, create memories together, and cherish the simple pleasures that make family life truly special.