 With
the Easter holidays just around the corner, many parents are dreading
hearing those awful words: "I'm bored".
They know from experience that suggestions like,
'read a book', 'tidy your room' or 'watch TV' are likely to be met with
scorn and sulky faces.
So what can you do to keep youngsters entertained during the holidays?
Try something different
- Give your local library a call - most have wonderful holiday programmes
for younger children, which cost little and keep the kids entertained
for hours – painting Easter eggs, making Easter bonnets, listening
to stories or watching a magic show.
- Older children will appreciate a little extra cash
to spend at the mall or video store. Instead of just handing it out,
why not pay the kids to do some chores around the house? Cleaning
the pool or the family car, mowing the lawn, washing the dishes or
babysitting younger siblings while you take a break, will keep them
busy for hours – and if they're earning money for it, they'll be happier
to co operate!
- Bake a cake together! So many of today's kids think cakes and apple
pies come from the supermarket. Sure, that's the convenient way to
manage a busy schedule – but by taking time out to bake together, you
not only give your children hours of fun, stirring, beating and tasting
– you're also teaching them skills that will last a lifetime.
- Check your local community newspaper for holiday sports clinics in
your area. Your upcoming cricketer, swimmer or soccer star will appreciate
extra time spent on their favourite activity – and kids who've never
participated in these sports could enjoy the chance the try.
- Invite a friend! Having a friend over for the day – or even a sleep-over
– turns a boring day into something fun. As a bonus, the friend's mom
will probably reciprocate, and you'll get a day off yourself!
- Limit
TV viewing, computer games and online activities to no more than two
or three hours a day. Sitting on the couch all day staring at a screen
is just not healthy. Rather get the kids outdoors, burning energy.
- Older children may enjoy getting involved in long-term activities
such as redecorating their room [yes, let them loose with the paint!],
making an item of clothing for themselves, or creating a scrapbook
of their Matric year.
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