Every mommy knows that constant fight with boredom that happens around the time of the summer holidays. The first few weeks are a joy when everyone is happy to see each other. But then it slowly but surely this disintegrates into bored winey kids, and a stressed mom. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Follow my tip and tricks for keeping the kids engaged and amused this summer.
Routine
Although it can be hard to get the kids into a routine, it’s one of the things that they miss most about being at school. Keeping to a schedule can help them feel more secure because they know where they should be and what they should be doing at any given time. Of course, it doesn’t have to be a military style, planned down to the minute. But things like Breakfast at 7 am, followed by cartoons, followed by an art activity, followed by some quote time workers well. Basically, you need to mix up the activities and only do them for a short space of time. This stops the little ones getting bored and moody.
Toys
Of course, it’s unlikely that you will get through the entire summer holiday without having to invest in some new toys for the kids. Managing their expectation is key here. Its best to be firm with them, so they realize that they aren’t going to get a toy every time that they leave the house.
Its also a great idea to have a stock of toys and games hidden away. Then you can reward them for good behavior or produce something new if you can feel them getting bored after a few days of similar activities. Buying the toys when you are on your own is better because the kids don’t know you have them then and won’t be able to badger yo for them. Bubbalove sell kids toys online, and you can also get some cool items from dollar stores. Create a stock of small but engaging toys and prizes to use throughout the holiday. Then if there are any left they can be kept for Christmas and birthdays.
Trips
The summer holidays are a great time to organize some trips out. Traditionally when we think of trips, we also think about how much they are going to cost us. It’s true some days out with the kids can be very expensive. You have to pay for travel, then the entrance fee and snack and drink while you are there. It also depends on what is available in your local area.
If you are in or near to a city, then there are probably lots of things to do like festivals, museums, and galleries. Make them enjoyable for the kids by setting them tasks to look and count certain things or to create a drawing of something that they see there.
If you live in a more rural area, then you options may be more limited. However, you will have the advantage of being able to get out into nature and explore some interventions countryside. Keep the kids interested but getting them to draw a specific landmark, count a certain bird or insect or even create your own nature ramble.