Can you believe it? Winter break has absolutely flown by. One minute we were unwrapping presents and enjoying holiday chaos, and now here we are—already saying goodbye to our oldest child again.

Do you have a college kiddo heading back to campus soon too? If so, I hope you’re able to make the most of the last moments together. Whether it's sharing a meal, running errands, or having meaningful conversations, these final days offer the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories and ensure your child is fully prepared for the next semester.

To help you make the most of this precious time, here are 10 thoughtful and practical things you can do before they head back to school.

Ah, your little one is teething! This common milestone can begin as early as 3 months and last until your child is about 3 years old. If your baby is in this age range and you’re noticing any of the following signs, they may be getting some new teeth! (And YOU might be getting less rest, at least for a little while!)

Teenagers can be a bit of a mystery, right? I should know, I have 3 of them! As your kid grows more independent, it can feel like you’re speaking different languages and spending lots of time apart. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to keep the connection strong! Below are 12 creative ways to build trust, spark conversation, and stay close with your teen, even as they navigate their changing world. 

1. Hit the gym. Teen years are a great time to introduce your child to fitness. Whether your teen is already into exercise or new to it, try a group class like yoga or kickboxing, hit the treadmill together, or show them how to safely use free weights. It’s a great way to bond while staying active. I recently re-joined The Woodlands Family YMCA with the intent of bringing my teens along with me for some of the group fitness classes.
   
   
2. Train for a 5K. You don’t need to be an experienced runner to train for a 5K. Find a simple online program, and run or walk around your neighborhood. You and your teen can build a music playlist, encourage healthy habits, and stretch together—bonding along the way. End it with the accomplishment of completing the race. Click here to check out upcoming 5Ks and other race events hosted by The Woodlands Township in 2025.
   
   
3. Visit grandparents. If you usually visit family without your teen, make a point to include them this time. Pick a day when your teen is free from school or work, and focus on spending time with the grandparents. Keep phones away, and truly enjoy the moment of three generations together.
   
   
4. Volunteer. The holidays are an excellent time to give back. Volunteer at a food bank, donate to an Angel Tree project, or help with a coat drive. Many local churches also need extra hands during holiday events. Outside of the holidays, there are many other opportunities to get involved in our community, particularly with The Woodlands Township programs.
   
   
5. Play a board game. Challenge your teen with a game you both enjoy. Whether it's Scrabble, checkers, or a trivia game, make it a fun, competitive experience. No need to rush—spend an hour or more enjoying the time together.
   
   
6. Go to a concert. Music is a great way to connect. Find a concert that you and your teen will both enjoy, whether it’s at the Cynthia Woods-Mitchell Pavilion or a smaller venue. Dress up, have a great dinner, and enjoy the night together. If concerts aren’t your thing, try a Broadway show or community theater performance instead.
   
   
7. Redecorate their room. Freshen up their space with a new coat of paint, upgraded furniture, or new décor. Let your teen help choose the style, whether it’s a cozy gaming setup or a more grown-up design. They’ll appreciate the effort, and it’s a fun project for both of you.
   
   
8. Go on a shopping spree. Take your teen shopping, just the two of you. It’s different from sending them out with friends—it gives you a chance to give advice and share your opinions on outfits. If your budget allows, treat them to a complete wardrobe makeover.
   
   
   
9. Breakfast at dawn. Surprise your teen by waking up early on a Saturday and heading to their favorite breakfast spot. Enjoy a quiet meal together and chat over coffee. Afterward, take a walk to enjoy the morning together.
   
   
10. Assemble something. Save money by tackling furniture or household items that need assembly. Make it a fun date by working together, listening to music, and sharing the experience. IKEA, here you come!
    
    
11. Read a book. You’re never too old for a good book. If you’re not comfortable reading aloud, choose an audiobook you can enjoy together. Whether it’s a novel or a joke book, make it a daily ritual to sit and enjoy the story as a team.
    
    
12. Have a photo shoot. A fun photoshoot can be a great way to bond with your teen while creating lasting memories. Instead of just posing for a traditional family photo, get creative! Let your teen pick the theme, choose quirky outfits, or even experiment with fun props. This gives them a chance to express themselves while you share laughs and enjoy each other's company. Plus, you’ll have some awesome photos to look back on, reminding both of you of the fun you had together.

Woweee! Where were these cute pimple patches when I was an adolescent? As a youngster, when I needed a quick zit removal, I used a big glob of toothpaste, which also meant I wasn't going anywhere in public for the next 12 hours.  

Well, times have surely changed, and turns out there's a smarter way to gain clearer-looking skin! These grace & stella Pimple Patches are almost too cute to be true, and I dare say they are a perfect acne spot treatment, especially for daytime use. I will gladly wear a fun heart sticker and other cute shapes on my face any day of the week, and it's a BONUS that these hydrocolloid patches are clinically-proven to flatten spots by absorbing fluid.