The summer hols may spell fun for kids, but have most parents groaning in dismay. ‘I’m bored’ is a lament they’ll hear often and finding a summer camp that will silence and exhaust kids is what most parents focus on. But with a little imagination and effort you can make it a rewarding time for the kids and yourself:
1. Send the kids out to play
This seems like a no-brainer, but you’ll be surprised how little of it kids actually do these days. They’ll be out of your hair and think of ways to amuse themselves and come up with games. Choose a safe environment. Or, a group of parents can take turns at watching over playtime outdoors.
Monopoly, Scrabble, Chess, Boggle – anything your kids are interested in. Invite a group of friends over to play and supply them with some juice and snacks. Whenever you get the time, you should play a few rounds, too.
3. Start a craft project
Get some tips on papier mache and start a project with your kids. Make balloon figures and animals, ending by painting them in bright colours. Collages are a great idea, too. Think of ways to use up recycled products to make pretty things.
If you have garden space, clear a patch, plant some seeds and encourage your kids to nurture them and watch them grow. Apartment –dwellers can do the same using planters or pots.
5. Make reading fun
Go book-shopping together. Let the kids choose books they want to read. Start them off by reading the first chapter or two. Let them take it from there. Turn bed-time into bonding time, asking them to tell you what they’ve read in the day.
Make a selection of children’s films, including your own favourites. Sit and watch together, with plenty of popcorn on the side.
7. Let them stage a performance
Get a bunch of kids together and guide them to write a story and enact a play with costumes and the works. You can arrange a performance with the neighbours as audience.
Find a park, pack a lunch and go. A day spent outdoors, playing games, eating and resting can be great for both parents and kids.
9. Make a list of fun activities
Have you taken the kids to an art exhibition recently? Or taken a Metro ride together? Even going to a market and exploring produce can be fun. Spread these activities over the summer.
There’s nothing kids love better than being allowed to mess around in the kitchen. You are guaranteed to have a good time, too. Look for kid-friendly recipes like cookies that they can help decorate and mini pizzas.
