Its hard to keep children happy in the harsh throws of winter. We can go outside and play for a bit but the cold can be unbearble after even a few short minutes. Mommy has things to do inside, because as we all know a mother's work is never done. Sometimes it is just too easy to sit them in front of the television or turn on the game system. Falling into that trap day after day is unhealthy and leads to unhappy children who will end up going stir fry or I mean stir crazy! Below are a few simple, cheap and fun ideas which require very little supervsion for ages 4+. So provide the supplies and let them at it... you have work to do!
Pasta Crafts
Lay out a bowl of uncooked penne, macaroni, shells, rotini, some string, paper and glue and let your little artist create. They can make pictures, cards for friends, necklaces and bracelets, you name it.
Pipe Cleaner Animals
If you dont already have some pipe cleaners can be purchased in fairly large quantites for very cheap. There are a lot of really easy and cute creatures that can be made in an array of colors. Check out this link for egg carton pipe cleaner combos that both you and your kids will love! http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/Eggcarton.shtml
Modeling Clay/Dough
We all know what this means, if given the appropriate space and multiple colors a child will play with "Claydough" for hours. You don't have to buy it either, it can be made with a few ingredients you may already have in your home. If you chose to make it yourself your child will also enjoy taking part in the project. See my post Making Easy Play Clay on the Awesome Activities page for multiple recipes.
Let them Help
This is by far my favorite of all ideas. There are a lot of chores around the house that can help to keep our children busy while also helping them learn basic skills that they will need down the line. Sometimes kids are considered in the way but with the right approach simple household chores can create tasks for your child that help them feel a part of your daily routine and like big helpers.
Sorting Laundry: This can be before or after wash. Allow them to sort whites, darks or colors before the wash goes in or allow them to sort the laudnry by which room it goes in or person it belongs to when folding.
Putting away dishes: I keep all the plastic storage containers in a low cabinet so that the chilren can match the lids with the appropriate container and put them away. Also silverware is great for kids to sort (obviously not including knives).
These are just a few simple ideas. Your household practices are welcome! Please post your ideas!
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I keep a "Box of Fun Stuff" that is full of things that can be cut, colored, glued, whatever. That way they can be creative without me searching for ideas and materials. One of the best things in there is the pack of coffee filters. I've been amazed by some of the things they have turned into with a little bit of childhood imagination.
ReplyDeleteThe other thing I've discovered is that I can turn on a little dribble of water in the kitchen sink and my 2 guys will "wash dishes" for as long as I let them.