By: Annabelle Harris
How do you keep kids entertained when they can’t go outdoors? Many parents are always on the lookout for fun, safe, educational activities for kids of all ages that will keep them occupied on days when the weather isn’t cooperating, or when mom and dad need to work from home and get things done. Fortunately, there are lots of creative ways you can help your kids have fun indoors, which will benefit both of you. Because juggling life responsibilities and parenthood can be stressful, it’s a good idea to also look for online resources that will help you focus on your mental health; Balancinglifeandkids.com can do just that.
Here are a few ideas when you’re ready to keep your little ones entertained.
Give them tools to ‘start’ a business
These days, it seems like entrepreneurs are everywhere. Self-made artists and creators are all over YouTube and social media platforms, and kids are definitely influenced by them. Talk to your child about “starting” a business of their own that allows them to pretend they’re running things. For instance, you might use online tools to let them create their own fashion designs. Use a free clothing logo design template that will allow your child to choose the font, colors, and layout they want to build an imaginary brand, and let them be their own boss for a day.
Put together a hobby box
If you work from home, it can be challenging to put together fun activities at the last minute and still get things done. That’s where having a premade hobby box can come in handy, and you can fill it with all the things your child loves to create. Markers, kinetic sand, modeling clay, glitter, beads, googly eyes, and stickers are great fillers for the box, and you can find these at your local dollar store. If your child prefers guided creative time, write down a few art prompts to help them get started. You can also look for ways to integrate art time with something they’re learning about in school, such as a famous figure or historical event.
Help them get active!
Creative time is wonderful for kids of all ages, but sometimes they need to get some excess energy out, and if they can’t get outdoors it’s important to look for active playtime ideas. You might provide pillows and blankets and encourage them to build a massive fort, or throw on some fun music and challenge them to make up their own dance. If you have balloons at home and your kids are old enough to play with them, blow one up and create a “balloon volleyball” game. You can also utilize a kids’ site that mixes modern music with activity challenges.
Give them time to decompress
Whether your little ones need time to calm down after an activity or you’re just looking for a way to fit some calm into the day, adding a quiet space to your home can help. Set up comfy chairs or pillows, soft lighting, a few books, and a yoga mat. Put on gentle music and encourage your kids to practice meditation or easy yoga positions, both of which can be beneficial for children of any age. Allowing your kids time to decompress, relax, and focus on their own thoughts can help them reduce stress and learn mindfulness.
Providing a variety of activities for your children to practice indoors can help them learn to entertain themselves and utilize self-guided play, which is important for little ones. It can also help you get things done, so come prepared with the right tools in order to make the most of playtime.
Feeling overwhelmed? Get in touch with Balancinglifeandkids.com today.