The pandemic began in mid-March and has now lasted longer than we expected. As most schools have announced remote learning for the 2020-2021 school year, many parents are concerned about their children’s academic performance in the new school year. However, more parents are concerned about their children’s mental health. What can we do to keep kids entertained during this trying time? The following are some of my current thoughts for my three children. While there are no ideal solutions, I hope it can serve as a source of inspiration for you throughout your confinement. Let’s hold each other’s hands and go through this together!
During quarantine, children’s social activity is drastically curtailed! They are unable to participate in sports together, there is no daily school contact, and sports activities are canceled. Outdoor activity, on the other hand, is critical for children’s mental and physical health.
Here are some of the activities I’ve planned for my kids to do outside.
1. Play Badmintons/Volleyball
In your backyard, set up a badminton/volleyball net. A lot of the time, kids want to stay indoors because there aren’t any enjoyable things to do outside. The net might serve as a reminder that there is fun to be had outside. I chose badminton/volleyball because it requires at least two people to play, so you and the kids will have to play together. It’s a fantastic time for parents who are bounding with their children. Even if you have a small child who is unable to play, she or he can assist you by picking up the birds/balls. It’s a fantastic game for them, believe me!
Below is a great combo that I found from Amazon for your reference. You can click on the image to see the details.
2. Get a trampoline
If you haven’t already, consider purchasing a trampoline. Trampolining is a fantastic outdoor exercise for both children and adults. If you’re a stay-at-home parent, you can work in the backyard while watching your kids jump on the trampoline. It is, without a doubt, an excellent way for children to expend their energy.
Please keep the trampoline in a safe location and remind the children to play nicely to avoid bumping into each other and injuring themselves.
Here is a product I found from Amazon for your reference. You can click on the image to see the details.
3. Make a reservation for a small group activity.
Many group sports/activities are closed during this crazy pandemic period. However, a limited number of local small group activities are opening. They are adhering to the CDC’s recommendations. They will usually have some procedure, such as measuring the temperature, wearing a mask at all times, and standing 6 feet apart outside. Choose an activity that is both comfortable and convenient for you.
For two weeks, I enrolled my children in a local summer half-day camp. It was a lot of fun for them. I think it’s a great opportunity for them to meet new people. It was a small group of campers (4 – 6 children), and they were asked to wear masks if they were indoors.
4. Go to the beach early or late in the day
The beach is always a favorite pastime for children. Playing in the water and with sand is always enjoyable. To avoid crowds, I usually go in the late afternoon. Arrive between 5 and 6 p.m. and depart 1-2 hours later. Using this strategy, I never encountered a crowd and never needed to wear a mask in the hot weather at the beach.
Below is a nice selection of beach accessories that you might find useful. You can view the details by clicking on the image. I bought my beach umbrella at Costco two years ago.
For your convenience, I’ve included a photo of the sun screen I use on my children. Blue Lizard is a fantastic chemical-free production. However, I’ve discovered that spray is much more useful over time.
5. Adopt a pet/pets
During the quarantine period, we adopted two kittens. That is the most brilliant idea I have ever heard. Muffin and Furball were adopted when they were two months old. They’re adorable, affectionate, and lovely. They are my children’s best friends. My children learned to be compassionate and taking responsibilities!
Our family has grown by two kittens! We’re starting to make products inspired by them, and we’re putting our hearts into them. I hope you keep an eye on our shops and find something useful for you. Keep an eye out for updates.
6. Enroll in online classes
I put this last because I’m hesitant to make this suggestion. One reason for this is that online classes will require parents to keep an eye on their children. Why? My personal experience has taught me that children are eager to play video games as much as possible. Online classes allow them to gain access to electronic devices and surf the internet. Online classes, on the other hand, are a great way to entertain the kids for a period of time during the day if you can keep a close eye on them and set up rules to discipline them.
One of the classes I registered for is a book club, where kids can read and discuss books while exchanging ideas. I think book club is a great way to entertain them while also teaching them and allowing them to communicate with one another.
There are numerous online classes to choose from. You must select one that is best suited to your children.
The ideas listed above are ones that I am currently implementing and sharing with you. If the weather does not allow us to stay outside, I will share more ideas with you. If you have any suggestions, please leave them in the comments section.
Let’s get through this tough period together!👍