FIRST WORD
Banishing Boredom
PJ Feinstein
Editor pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com
Facebook @WashingtonFamilyMagazine​
Twitter @FAMILYMagDC
Pinterest @familymagazine
Instagram @washingtonfamilymag
Email us
Let us know what’s on your mind.

info@washingtonFAMILY.com I recently read an article in The New York Times that
makes the case for letting children play outside all
winter. They’ll enjoy themselves, the writer explains,
as long as they have suitable clothing, activities to keep
them moving and plenty of snacks.

Now, my kids are happy to bundle up if there’s snow
on the ground, but as the temperature drops, so does
their enthusiasm for being outside. Even if I can manage
to convince them to run around in the yard for an hour
or so every day, winter is long. Without the possibility of
indoor playdates to pass the time, am I doomed to listen
to my boys whine that they’re bored until spring?
After working with the editorial team on our cover
story, “Indoor Family Fun” (page 9), I’m feeling a little
less concerned about the potential for cabin fever.

Our guide offers inventive ways to entertain the kids
at home, from building the ultimate arts and crafts
closet to picking the perfect game for family game
night. When combined with some outdoor play, these
activities are sure to keep little ones busy and, most
importantly, happy.

Looking ahead to warmer weather, our January
issue also explores what summer camp might look like
across the region (page 18). Jennifer Marino Walters
spoke to camp directors and local parents about how
they dealt with COVID-19 restrictions in 2020 and
what they are planning to do in 2021.

Finally, I’m excited to introduce two new
departments in this issue: Parent You Should Know
(page 8) and My Turn (page 35). If you’d like to
nominate a mom or dad for Parent You Should Know
or submit a personal essay on parenting for My Turn,
please email me at PFeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com.

Indeed, 2020 was the most challenging year many
of us have ever experienced. While hope is on the
horizon, let’s all continue to wear masks, wash our
hands and take care of one another.

Happy reading!
WashingtonFAMILY.com 5