Nancy Berk, Ph.D. is the author of College Bound and Gagged: How To Help Your Kid Get Into A Great College Without Losing Your Savings, Your Relationship, or Your Mind. She speaks and writes extensively about social behavior, pop culture, parenting and college. A clinical psychologist, comic, professor, and parent, she is a blogger for The Huffington Post, USA TODAY College, and MORE Magazine. Nancy is the mom of two sons; both believe their aunt is much cooler than she is.
 
Cabin fever isn’t fun. And cabin fever plus restless kids is no parental picnic. This is the perfect opportunity for an aunt to become the favorite sibling and connect with nieces and nephews. Whether you’re in a deep freeze or just waiting for the blue skies of spring, there are plenty of enjoyable and inexpensive ways to bond and shake off the winter blues.
 
1. The Repetitive Movie: Most children have a favorite movie. If allowed, they will watch it over and over again. If it’s on DVD, chances are parents can recite every word of dialogue right along with their offspring. If the movie is still in theaters, only a handful of parents can bear sitting through a second, let alone a third showing. Be the hero and plan a movie night with your niece or nephew. Discuss their fascination with the film and prepare to be enlightened, amused and loved.
 
2. The Special Get Away: A ski holiday might make you the favorite, but there are also plenty of off-peak opportunities for fun. For example, winter beach resort prices are often slashed when there’s snow on the ground. The views and the amenities are still fabulous and you won’t be fighting the crowds. Check for adjoining room options and winter-specific activities.
 
3. The Academic Spin: Identify an age-related academic activity and make it fun. Go shopping for flash cards. Head to the library for an educational documentary. Tour a local college and have lunch in the student union.
 
4. The Music Date: Plan a music day that focuses on learning about the music they love or introducing them to your music. Visit vintage record stores. Attend a concert. Work together to create a playlist for your next road trip.
 
5. The Dinner Shift: Aunts are allowed to shake things up a bit. Hit the road with your nieces and nephews for a different kind of progressive dinner. Make every course a different restaurant stop, but do it in reverse. How could you not get major points when cake is the kick-off food?

Photo: David Castillo Dominici
Published: January 30, 2013