Sometimes, though, it’s also good to return to the basics. Coloring and drawing are two of the earliest and simplest activities we do, but they’re also extremely beneficial. In fact, coloring books and parties for adults were huge trends last year, providing fun and low-cost ways to relax. Children can reap those same benefits and even more.

Coloring and drawing both help kids improve fine motor skills. They also train the brain to focus. For parents and teachers, these inexpensive activities require limited preparation and are well-suited to travel (particularly relevant with winter breaks approaching). Materials are readily available at most general retailers, discount stores, or online. Tech-driven parents can find a growing number of coloring and drawing apps available on mobile devices.