15 Family Fun Ideas To Liven Up That Bit Between Christmas And New Year

It's called "Twixmas", apparently.

1. Go geocaching.

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Geocaching is a modern-day treasure-hunting game that’s already being played all over the world. There are millions of “geocaches” to find in Britain alone, and it’s a great excuse for a family adventure.

All you need to do is download the app, bring up the map of your local area, and use the clues and co-ordinates to try and find the caches. Once you do, you add your name to the log, put it back, then go find some more!

2. Try baking something extravagant.

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Don't listen! If we've learnt anything, it's that everyone can bake if they put their mind to it. Don't fear the soggy bottom!

In fact, ring-shaped cakes are a symbol in many cultures of coming full circle, which make them timely for Twixmas. Many hide a coin or candy within the cake, as a symbol of good luck for whoever finds it!

3. Do a massive puzzle.

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There's few better ways to while away a winter day than a hefty puzzle. Addictive, yet so soothing at the same time. And equally fun to do with friends and family too!

4. Swap roles for a day.

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Kids love to feel grown-up, so why not put them in charge and let them cook *you* a meal for once?

Of course, you can't just put your feet up and leave them to it. But it could be a fun project to help them "cook" a meal for the full family. (With your guidance, of course.)

5. Do something retro...like go to the library.

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Remember libraries? We jest – of course you do! But we're willing to bet that's a been a while since you've visited. They're a wonderful day out and much better than whatever's on the TV, that's for sure.

6. Find the positives in 2016.

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In all seriousness, it's nice to take time to reflect and be thankful for all the good things that happened in the past year. So why not spend a few hours with the kids going through photos and picking out your highlights?

(It's a good way to prepare yourself for the next one!)

7. Have an afternoon tea party.

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Just think, you drink regular tea for 360-plus days a year. It's about time you treated yourself to tea like the Queen takes it!

You could bake scones, make finger sandwiches, and even break out the fine china!

8. Find a way to give back.

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It goes without saying that there are countless good causes out there, but it doesn't just have to be through cash...

9. You could support a local cause.

There are so many great nonprofit initiatives around the UK that rely on funding from visitors coming through the door. From the arts to recreation to even local farms – you'd be surprised at how many will still be open over the winter period!

10. Have a pre-spring clean and clear out the family wardrobes.

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With all the new presents you've just opened, you'll definitely need to clear some wardrobe space – and there's plenty of causes who'll be happy to receive your hand-me-downs.

11. Or even just donate your time.

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A good place to start is here! A few hours here and there can go a long way.

12. Make up for the lack of snow by going skiing!

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There's a surprising amount of dry ski slopes all around Britain, as well as a few snow centres, and they all cost significantly less than it would to get over to the French Alps.

13. Find out if it really will blend.

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Kids love to make a racket. Meanwhile, odds are that the blender in the cupboard doesn't get nearly as much use as you'd like. (They never do!)

So one idea is to spend an afternoon bringing those two things together. The children get to experiment, while you get to slip in some of their five-a-day for good measure!

14. Go and check out your nearest National Trust site.

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There are over 500 National Trust owned properties across the United Kingdom, which means you won't be far away from something interesting.

That includes historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks, nature reserves, pubs, inns, villages, and lots of things we're likely forgetting.

15. Make a dish that'll bring you some luck in the New Year.

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All around the world, people have various traditions and superstitions designed to bring them prosperity and joy in the year ahead.

For example, in the souther states of America, they eat a dish called Hoppin' John, made of pork, rice, and peas, to ensure good fortune in the upcoming year.

They also have a saying: "Peas for pennies, greens for dollars, and cornbread for gold". In fact, collard greens are supposed to be worth $1,000 per bite, so maybe run that one by the kids!

Co-Op Food – there for all your last-minute needs this Christmas and New Year!