Fall and winter often bring more opportunities for families to spend time together at home. With quieter evenings, weekends and holiday breaks, families can make space for shared activities that spark curiosity, encourage conversation and turn everyday moments into opportunities to learn. 

With more than 80% of a child’s waking hours spent outside of school, families play a vital role in supporting children’s learning and development. Small, everyday learning opportunities at home can make a meaningful difference. Here are three easy ways to turn downtime into family learning. 

Try a STEM Experiment (No Lab Coats Necessary)

Kitchen-table science is one of the easiest ways to turn a sleepy day into curiosity-driven discovery. You might even already have the materials you need at home to make SLIME or unpoppable bubbles. 

Start by watching a video experiment guide together to understand the basics. Let your child take the lead on set-up and clean-up.  

Afterward, you can use the experiment to start a conversation, asking “What do you think happened?” or “Why do you think that worked?”  

You might even learn (or re-learn) something new about how the world works. 

Use Artistic Expression to Connect 

Kids can’t always put their feelings into words when you ask, “How was your day?”  

Try asking your child to draw, write or take a picture of something that represents how the day made them feel. It gives them another way to say what’s on their mind. Art is also a great way to have conversations with your child about mental health.   

Or make art while getting your body moving by picking your favorite family song and choreographing a dance to the music.  

Try one of these other family art activities to make a memory through art. 

Mix Up Your Family’s Reading Routine 

92% of parents and 80% of children agree that reading aloud is a special time with family, according to the 2022 Scholastic Kids and Family Reading Report.  

But reading shouldn’t mean revisiting the same book every night. Bringing variety into story time keeps things fresh and can meet kids where they are. 

Taking 10 minutes to read aloud can become the highlight of your day – especially if you ask questions, take turns choosing books and incorporate stories outside of just bedtime.  

Or consult lists of kid-friendly poetry or graphic novels to expose your child to new titles. Learn tips for raising readers when you kid doesn’t like to red.  

Eager to learn more about resources like this these? Visit PTA.org/Programs for more free family resources on digital safety, STEM, arts education and healthy lifestyles.