Category: Interesting

Hobbies are a great way to nurture well-rounded development. So, if your child hasn’t already chosen a hobby, you might be searching for something to pique their interest. Have you considered horseback riding? This unique hobby isn’t on every parent’s radar, but it could potentially be perfect for your kid. Here’s why!

Riding Is a Physical Feat

You might think that sitting on a horse isn’t much of a workout, but think again! As your child learns to balance on the creature, they’ll get a strong core and legs, and their posture might also improve.

Additionally, there’s also some fine motor development. Riding requires your child to isolate different body parts, coordinate their hands with their legs, maintain a steady rhythm, and adjust their weight in an instant. Through this, they can build a level of coordination that translates well to other sports and daily activities.

Riding Is a Mental Exercise

On top of the physical exercise, riding gives your kid’s brain a workout as well. Your little rider must memorize dressage tests, recall complex jumping courses, remember safety protocols, and anticipate the horse’s next move. Moreover, in this structured environment, your kid can learn to follow directions from an instructor. They’ll have to focus, recall, and listen, which are skills that are undeniably useful in a classroom setting and life in general.

Horses Support Emotional Development

Horses are sensitive creatures that mirror our emotions. If a rider is anxious or angry, the horse will likely become tense as well.

When your child develops a relationship with a horse, it helps them learn to regulate their emotions. The horse, through mirroring, can teach empathy, patience, self-control, and emotional awareness.

The Hobby Cultivates Responsibility

Caring for a horse involves a tremendous amount of work before and after the actual ride. Kids involved in equestrian sports quickly learn that the animal’s needs come first.

On any given day, a young rider might be grooming their horse, sweeping the barn aisle to keep it tidy, filling water buckets, and so forth. These chores instill a strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility that should serve your child well into adulthood.

Tips for Choosing the Right Facility

So, do you think horseback riding could be the perfect hobby for your kid? If so, the next step is to find a stable offering classes. When you are ready to explore local stables, look for a facility with great reviews in terms of safety and education.

Pro Tip: Check the Weatherproofing

Consistency is key when learning a new skill. Since weather can disrupt lessons, look for a facility that can operate rain or shine. While outdoor rings are lovely, a covered metal arena is best for guaranteeing that lessons continue regardless of the forecast.

Is Your Kid Ready to Saddle Up?

Horseback riding is a physical, mental, and emotional workout, and getting your child started in the hobby is fairly straightforward. With the right stable and instructor, your kid can enjoy a fantastic activity that builds character, instills responsibility, and provides endless joy.

Winter break is full of fun, food, friends, and folks, and of course – brightly wrapped gifts! But it can also feel awkward. You could be spending time with people you don’t know very well or with family members you rarely see. Whether you’re still in school or already working, the holidays can be a mix of fun and stress.

Before resorting to endless scrolling to pass the time, look up games you can easily teach your guests. There’s something fun for every age and skill level. And if you’re feeling extra generous, consider organizing a little gift exchange among your friends for team holiday gifts to add some festive cheer!

Creating Memorable Holiday Moments

Now, here are a few ideas to ensure you have a joyful, memorable, and stress-free holiday break.

Plan Ahead for Smooth Sailing

A little planning goes a long way. Think about the activities or outings you might want to try over the holiday break and sketch out a basic itinerary. Whether it’s a movie marathon with friends, a cozy family game night, or some time for winter sports, having a loose plan helps everyone feel included and excited. This also leaves you room to do something spontaneous without feeling rushed!

Try Out New Group Games

Games are perfect icebreakers for holiday gatherings. Whether it’s classic charades, a trivia night, or board games, choose a mix of old favorites and new picks. Some quick and easy options for larger groups include Heads Up, Pictionary, or even setting up a DIY photo booth corner for some silly snapshots. Everyone loves sharing a laugh, and a bit of friendly competition can add excitement to the night.

Embrace a No-Phone Zone

This doesn’t mean you have to keep all phones off-limits but encourage everyone to put down their screens for a while and engage face-to-face. Suggest a “no phones at the dinner table” rule or a phone-free hour during the evening.

You could also make it fun and ask for all phones to go into a box before entering the gathering.  This encourages everyone to live in the moment and really connect.

Get Creative with DIY Crafts

If you’re feeling artsy, set up a small table with craft supplies for some hands-on fun. This can be as simple as holiday ornament decorating, card-making, or even creating friendship bracelets. You can even turn it into a contest with a prize for the most creative craft.

Plus, handmade gifts add a personal touch that makes holiday gatherings more meaningful. After all, creating fun does not have to be elaborate of expensive.  All you need is a few creative ideas for festive fun.

Give Back Together

Spread a little kindness by organizing a small volunteer activity or a holiday donation drive. Consider hosting a small food or gift donation collection and drop it off at a local charity as a group. Giving back as a family or friend group brings everyone closer and makes the season feel more purposeful. You’ll also be extra thankful when it’s time to sit down to your own dinner table.

Keep It Cozy

Finally, remember that it’s okay to keep things low-key. Wear your favorite cozy sweaters and focus on just being with people you care about. Avoid comparing yourself to others or feeling pressure to make everything “perfect.” Just relax and enjoy each moment – those are the memories that will make the holiday feel truly special.

This holiday break, focus on laughter, kindness, and connection, and let the stress melt away. With a few simple efforts to make everyone feel welcome, you’ll be set for the happiest holiday yet.  You’ll also feel recharged for when it’s time to head back to school or work.

Rediscover The Magic of the Holidays

Go back in your mind to World War 1, December, 1914. On one side of the battlefield: The Germans. On the other side: British, French and Belgian troops.

Soldiers were huddled in the cold dirt, in trenches on both sides. Late on Christmas eve night, the moon was bright and magical. Someone on the German side rose from his hole in the ground to start singing Christmas carols.

Other German soldiers soon joined in. When they were done, the other side—the Allies—sang a Christmas carol in return. Soon, the men were out of their trenches, singing carols and exchanging their meager supplies as goodwill gestures and shows of holiday spirit.

Of course, the commanders far away from the fighting did not approve of such behavior, but the soldiers there face to face with the enemy set aside their hostilities to be kind and thoughtful human beings, even in the face of war and death.

Reports on what happened the following days vary, but all agree that the front-line soldiers on both sides declared an unofficial truce. In some reports, the soldiers even played soccer on the battlefield.

Of course, sadly, the war resumed. For years to follow, soldiers fought for freedom in Europe. But in 1914 for the Christmas holidays, the soldiers set down their rifles and sang to the enemy.

Google the Christmas miracle of 1914. Then ask yourself if it truly is impossible to spread peace and goodwill for the holidays, even to people you think you hate.

Related Reading:

Learn how to provide safe fun for kids during school holidays breaks.

“Why does the air just feel different when the calendar hits December? The days might be shorter (unless you’re enjoying a summer Christmas in Australia), but the world seems to get a whole lot brighter The Holiday Season is more than Santa Claus; it is actually a massive, worldwide tapestry of celebrations.

From lighting lamps in India to sweeping away bad luck in China, families everywhere are celebrating themes of light, hope, and new beginnings.

A Global Tour of Festive Celebrations

Ready to expand your horizons? Let’s take a global tour of how the world celebrates this festive season, stretching all the way from December into the New Year!

Las Posadas (The Inns)

• When: December 16th – December 24th
• Who: Mexico, Latin America, and Hispanic communities in the US

In Mexico and parts of Central America, the countdown to Christmas is an event all on its own! Las Posadas (which means “The Inns”) is a nine-night celebration that reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before Jesus was born.

During the procession, a group travels to different houses singing songs to ask for lodging. At the final house, they are welcomed inside for a party with warm punch (ponche), food, and, most importantly for the kids, star-shaped piñatas filled with candy and fruit. It’s a wonderful tradition that emphasizes hospitality and community.

Hanukkah (The Festival of Lights)

• When: Varies annually (Mid-to-Late December)
• Who: Jewish Communities

Hanukkah is an eight-night celebration that honors a miracle from long ago. The story goes that a small band of Jewish fighters reclaimed their Holy Temple, but they only had enough oil to light the temple’s lamp for one night. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight full nights!

Today, families celebrate by lighting the menorah (adding one candle each night), eating foods fried in oil (like latkes or jelly donuts), and spinning a four-sided top called a dreidel.

Bodhi Day (Day of Enlightenment)

• When: December 8th
• Who: Buddhists

While many December holidays are about “hustle and bustle,” Bodhi Day offers a moment of calm. This day commemorates the moment Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) attained enlightenment while sitting under a Bodhi tree.

Instead of a big feast, this day is often celebrated with meditation, chanting, and acts of kindness. Some families decorate a small Ficus tree with colored lights, representing the different paths to enlightenment. It is a beautiful reminder to find peace amidst the holiday rush.

Winter Solstice (Yule)

• When: Around December 21st
• Who: Various cultures, Nature lovers, and Pagan traditions

For students of science, this is the shortest day and the longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. But culturally, it is a celebration of the sun’s return!

Many ancient traditions, like bringing evergreen boughs inside or lighting a Yule log, started as ways to remind people that life continues even in the depth of winter. It is a celebration of nature’s cycles and the promise that brighter days are ahead.

Christmas (December 25th)

• When: December 25th (Christmas Day(
• Who: Christians and western celebrators worldwide

You probably know about the Christmas tree and Santa Claus, but did you know traditions change depending on where you land on the map?

In the United States, children leave cookies for Santa. In France, they might leave shoes by the fireplace for Père Noël. In Australia, where it is summer, Christmas dinner might be a BBQ on the beach! At its heart, however, it commemorates the birth of Jesus and is a time for giving and gathering with family.

On December 26th, Boxing Day is British tradition celebrated the day after Christmas in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Kwanzaa (A Celebration of Family & Culture)

• When: December 26th – January 1st
• Who: African-American and Pan-African communities

Kwanzaa is a vibrant, week-long celebration honoring African heritage and culture. It is not a religious holiday, but a cultural one. Each of the seven nights focuses on a specific principle (the Nguzo Saba), such as Unity (Umoja) or Creativity (Kuumba).

Families light a candle holder called a kinara, share gifts (often homemade or educational), and come together for a large feast called the Karamu on December 31st.

Orthodox Christmas

• When: January 7th
• Who: Orthodox Christians (Eastern Europe, Egypt, Ethiopia, and more)

Wait, Christmas in January? Yes! Many Orthodox Christians (including those from Ukraine, Russia, and Serbia) follow the older Julian calendar for religious holidays, which currently runs 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar we use every day.

For many Ukrainian families, the celebration begins on Christmas Eve (Jan 6th) with a Holy Supper featuring 12 meatless dishes to represent the 12 apostles. One key tradition is Kutia, a sweet grain pudding. It’s a wonderful example of how the holiday spirit extends well into the New Year.

Russia celebrates Christmas, primarily on January 7th due to the Russian Orthodox Church following the older Julian calendar This makes it a significant religious holiday with traditions like feasts, church services, and caroling. It often fallows the longer New Year’s holiday period when many secular customs blend with religious ones, especially after the Soviet era.

Isra and Mi’raj (The Night Journey)

• When: Varies (Around January 16th in 2026)
• Who: Muslims

While the major festivals of Eid move through the seasons (sometimes in summer, sometimes in spring), this year, the holy observance of Isra and Mi’raj falls in January. This night commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s miraculous night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension to the heavens.

It isn’t a “party” in the same way New Year’s Eve is. Instead, it is a “Holy Night.” Families often spend the night in prayer, reading the Qur’an, and telling the story of the journey to children. In some cultures, cities are lit up with candles and lights to mark the occasion.

Lunar New Year (The Spring Festival)

• When: Late January or Early February
• Who: Many Asian cultures (China, Vietnam, Korea, and more)

Just when you think the festivities are over, the Lunar New Year arrives to finish the season with a bang! This is the most important holiday in China and many other Asian countries. While often called the Spring Festival, it goes by different names depending on where you are.  For example, it is celebrated as Tết in Vietnam and Seollal in Korea.

Traditions include cleaning the house to “sweep away” bad luck from the old year, hanging red decorations for prosperity, and handing out red envelopes containing money to children. Whether it is called Tết, Seollal, or the Spring Festival, it is a time deeply centered on family reunions, honoring ancestors, and welcoming good fortune for the year ahead.

Diwali (The Festival of Lights)

• When: Varies (Usually October or November)
• Who: Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists

Although it often falls a little earlier than year end or new year holidays, Diwali is one of the world’s biggest and brightest celebrations. It gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that families light outside their homes.

The festival symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. To celebrate, families decorate their floors with colorful art patterns called rangoli, share sweets, wear new clothes, and light up the night sky with fireworks. It’s a dazzling display of joy that sets the tone for the season.

Celebrating Together

Whether you are lighting a menorah, decorating a tree, or waiting for the moon to rise, the message of this season is universal. We all look for light in the darkness, we all cherish our families, and we all hope for a happy, healthy year ahead.

Activity for Families: This year, why not pick one tradition from this list that is new to you? Read a book about it, try a recipe, or simply talk about it at the dinner table. It’s the perfect way to bring a little more of the world into your home.

Notable Festive Celebrations and Dates

St. Nicholas Day (December 6):   Celebrated in parts of Europe, honoring kindness and generosity through small gifts and acts of charity.

Saint Lucia Day (St. Lucy’s Day – December 13):  One of the most celebrated festivities in Sweden, also observed in Norway, Denmark, and parts of Finland.

Omisoka (December 31): Japan’s year-end tradition focused on reflection, family, and preparing for a fresh start in the New Year.

Hogmanay (December 31): Scotland’s New Year celebration, known for music, fireworks, and traditions meant to bring good luck.

Three Kings Day (Epiphany) (January 6): Celebrated in Spain, Latin America, and other regions, marking the arrival of the Wise Men with parades, gifts, and special foods.

Timkat (January 19): An important Ethiopian Orthodox celebration commemorating the baptism of Jesus, featuring colorful processions and communal gatherings.

Pongal (Mid-January): A South Indian harvest festival giving thanks for the sun, the land, and abundance, often celebrated over several days.

Lohri / Maghi (Mid-January): Winter festivals celebrated in Punjab, marking the end of winter and the harvest season with bonfires and songs.

Welcoming a cat into a home full of little feet and sticky fingers can bring laughter, learning, and a lifetime of warm memories. But not every cat is keen on noisy games, unpredictable squeezes, or a toddler’s version of “gentle.” Choosing the right feline friend means thinking beyond coat colour or cuteness and focusing on traits that suit the pace and pattern of family life.

This guide explores what makes a cat a great fit for children, which breeds tend to thrive in family homes, and how to raise cats and kids together in harmony. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or expanding your animal crew, there’s a whiskered companion out there ready to join the family.

What Makes a Cat Child-Friendly?

Cats that do well with children often share a few core traits. First on the list is patience. Life with kids isn’t quiet. A child-friendly cat can tolerate the occasional squeal, fast movement, or toy flying a bit too close. While no cat should ever be expected to endure rough handling, some breeds tend to show a higher threshold for household chaos than others.

Playfulness is another big plus. Cats who enjoy chasing, climbing, and engaging with their humans make wonderful companions for energetic children. Play isn’t just fun—it strengthens the bond between child and cat while giving them a way to burn energy together.

Affection and sociability matter too. Cats that seek out attention, enjoy being petted, and happily curl up on the couch tend to slot in well with families. That said, even affectionate cats need safe retreat spots: quiet zones where they can nap or recharge away from the noise.

And finally, there’s the importance of individual personality. While breed traits offer clues, every cat is unique. Early socialisation (especially between 2 and 9 weeks old) plays a huge role in shaping a cat’s comfort around people and new environments. A mixed-breed shelter kitten with the right exposure to kids and household sounds might adapt better than a purebred raised in isolation.

Best Child-Friendly Cat Breeds

These breeds are often praised for their steady temperaments, playfulness, and willingness to bond with both adults and children. Still, always meet the individual cat first, as temperament can vary from one to the next.

Ragdoll

Ragdolls live up to their name. Many will go limp when picked up, happily flopping into arms like plush toys. They’re calm, people-focused, and enjoy following family members around the house. Known for tolerating handling, Ragdolls often become lap fixtures and are content with indoor life. They need regular brushing, especially around the chest and tail, but they’re generally low-fuss companions.

Maine Coon

The gentle giant of the cat world, the Maine Coon combines size with a sweet disposition. They’re friendly, tolerant, and patient, often described as dog-like in their loyalty. Maine Coons usually enjoy interactive play and can coexist peacefully with kids, dogs, and other pets. Their thick coats do require brushing a few times a week to prevent mats.

Burmese

Outgoing and affectionate, Burmese cats are chatterboxes with big hearts. They love attention and seek out human interaction, making them ideal for busy households. Burmese cats tend to be energetic and thrive on play, but also settle in for snuggles after the fun. Their short coats are easy to maintain.

Birman

Birmans strike a balance between calm and curiosity. They’re sociable but not overly demanding, affectionate but not clingy. These cats often gravitate toward children and enjoy gentle play. Their semi-long fur is silky and doesn’t mat easily, needing only light grooming.

British Shorthair

Round-faced and plush, British Shorthairs bring a calm presence to the home. They’re not the most athletic of breeds, but they enjoy companionship and often form strong bonds with children. They prefer to observe rather than jump into chaos, but they tolerate respectful play well. Their dense coats need regular brushing.

Abyssinian

Lively and curious, the Abyssinian thrives on activity. These cats love climbing, chasing toys, and being part of the action. For older children who enjoy interactive pets, Abyssinians make delightful companions. They’re not lap cats, but they do love attention. Their short coats are easy to care for, but their minds need daily stimulation.

American Shorthair

Steady and adaptable, American Shorthairs are known for being low-maintenance and affectionate without being needy. They fit well into a range of homes, including those with young children. These cats tend to enjoy gentle play and adjust easily to new routines. Their grooming needs are minimal.

Exotic Shorthair

Exotic Shorthairs offer the teddy bear look of a Persian without the grooming demands. These cats are sweet-natured, calm, and enjoy lounging beside their people. They’re ideal for families looking for a mellow pet. Their short, dense coat does need occasional brushing, and they may be prone to tear staining around the eyes.

Domestic Shorthair (DSH)

While not a pedigree breed, Domestic Shorthairs represent the heart and soul of many homes. Often adopted from shelters, their personalities are varied, but many are easy-going, playful, and remarkably adaptable. With proper socialisation, DSH cats thrive in noisy, child-filled environments. They come in every colour and pattern imaginable, and their short coats make for simple grooming routines.

Tips for Raising a Cat Around Children

Choosing a child-friendly cat only gets us halfway to a harmonious pet-friendly household. Teaching children how to respect their new furry friend is just as vital. The way a cat is treated in early interactions can shape their comfort and behaviour for years to come.

1. Teach Gentle, Respectful Handling

Start with the basics: no pulling tails, no picking up without support, and no startling while sleeping or eating. Show children how to stroke gently, approach slowly, and read signs like tail flicks or flattened ears. Encourage quiet voices and calm movements. Make kindness a game they want to win.

2. Create Safe Retreat Spaces

Even the most social cats need breathing room. Set up cozy zones—like a cat tree, shelf, or quiet bedroom—where your feline can retreat undisturbed. Make these spaces off-limits to kids, especially during high-energy play or noisy moments. A cat that feels safe is more likely to stay social.

3. Keep Claws Trimmed

Trimmed claws reduce the chances of accidental scratches during playtime. Teach children that claws aren’t “bad”, as they’re part of how cats explore, but that soft paws are almost always preferable. If your cat tolerates it, scratching posts and nail caps can also help keep things scratch-free.

4. Structure Play Sessions

Toys like feather wands, laser pointers, and rolling balls let kids and cats play together without physical handling. Supervised play sessions teach boundaries and help burn off energy. Rotate toys to keep things fresh, and encourage children to end play calmly with a treat or cuddle if the cat seeks it.

5. Involve Kids in Daily Care

Even young children can help with feeding (under supervision), brushing, or topping up water bowls. This builds connection and responsibility. Just ensure that children learn to observe the cat’s mood and respect when it wants space.

Final Thoughts

When choosing a cat for your home, prioritise meet-and-greets. Watch how the cat responds to noise, touch, and strangers. Ask questions about past experiences with children or other pets.

Shelters often have adult cats already used to family life. While kittens are adorable, older cats may suit busy homes better, as they’re more predictable and less fragile. If you do bring home a kitten, early socialisation and consistent routines will help shape a confident, well-adjusted companion who your children will cherish for years to come.