Holiday periods can sometimes be a challenge when you’re trying to find ways to keep kids entertained. This is especially true when trying to limit screen time from smartphones and tablets. Thankfully, there is a range of activities that will keep kids happy and offer opportunities for family bonding.
So, when the next lot of school holidays roll around, here are 5 ideas to keep the kids from crawling up the walls.
Turn your backyard into a play yard
Physical activity is an important part of a child’s development. They already have so much energy to burn, so why not head outside and start playing right at home?
Simple games like Tag are a great starting point and will get kids active with a lot of laughs. From there, introduce a ball or a frisbee and play in teams if there are enough participants.
Investing in play equipment, such as a swing set or trampoline is also a fantastic way to encourage kids to go outside and to keep them entertained for days on end.
Plan bike riding trips
Bikes have been popular with kids for generations, and for good reason. They are the perfect tool to keep kids entertained, while also providing a sense of freedom and an opportunity for social interaction with friends.
When it comes to holidays, going bike riding also offers occasions to plan a half or full-day trip to a new, unexplored location. This could be going to the park with playground equipment or out to grab an ice-cream at the local store.
Don’t forget to join in on the cycling fun. Go riding with your children, especially if they are younger. Always ensure they are wearing their helmets and consider knee or elbow pads.
Arts and crafts
It’s no surprise that little ones love to create! When it comes to boredom busters, arts and crafts are true and tested in keeping minds occupied. Start by setting up a space where kids can let their creative juices run wild, fuelling their imagination, and providing an outlet to express themselves.
There is a large variety of arts and crafts to suit a range of ages. Drawing is a favorite activity, but paint can be a little more exciting (and messy!). Clay and playdough also make for a wonderful choice, letting children create and build almost anything they can dream up.
Cooking and baking
Most kids love sweet treats and getting them to participate in cooking and baking is an excellent way to kill time on a boring afternoon. It provides an opportunity for them to get some great hands-on experience and teach them all about the processes of making food.
Cooking and baking also involve steps like measuring and weighing, bringing maths into the equation. Recipes don’t necessarily need to be sweet either. Savory treats like muffins are also a great option. And of course, the best thing about baking is the end result – a tasty snack to enjoy together.
Film a home movie
Sure, your kids likely spend a lot of time watching shows on tablets or TVs, but why not keep them entertained by letting them be their own stars in their home movies!
Taking make-believe to the next level, children will love creating stories, learning lines, and costumes. Get the video cameraout and let them present you with their very own show. Definitely, a fun way to create memories and to bring out later on in life at a birthday party or special event.
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