Easter holidays are coming up, and that means
your kids will have a week or two off from school. While this is an exciting
time for them, it can also be a stressful one for you because they will expect
you to have a whole load of fun filled activities waiting for them. And
sometimes, it's just not that simple. As a parent, we have so many
responsibilities that are expected of
us, and we want to do everything perfectly to ensure that our children are
happy and enjoying their holiday.
So instead of you having to come up with a whole
selection of ideas - we've done it for you.
Something to remember, is that although your
children may have all these crazy ideas of what they want to do, it's your job
to show them that sometimes, the simple things are what matter most. Like going
for a picnic in the park, or staying in to watch movies together with popcorn
and other yummy snacks. It doesn't have to be an adventure all the time.
You can find a lot of fun in the little things too.
Here are some ideas.
Take them fishing
If you live close to a lake or river, and you're
allowed to fish in it (as some places don't allow it in order to protect the
wildlife), take your children there. Even if you're not very good, you
shouldn't let that stop you. If the weather is on your side, make a
whole day out of it, and bring a barbecue
with you. If you do get lucky and catch anything, you could even grill it and
eat it. This is a brilliant way of showing your children how to live sustainability,
all while having a lovely day out in the nature as the sun shines down on you.
Visit the local farm
As the holiday falls during spring, this is the
perfect time to visit a farm because it will be full of all the beautiful baby
animals like the lambs, chicks and calves. Regardless of what age you are, who
doesn't enjoy looking at these wonderful creatures? You can't not have a smile
on your face. It's the beginning of life, and you can teach your children a
thing or two about it, while getting up close and personal, feeding and petting
the animals.
Buy a small pet
The first thing to mention with this, is that
you shouldn't just buy one for the sake of it and then realize it wasn't the
best decision and end up giving it back. This is a living creature, so if
you're looking to get one, you need to be sure that it's what you want. You may
get something small like a hamster or rabbit, or maybe you think your kids are
responsible enough to own a
kitty or pup. The best time to get one is when you're
at home for a while so that they can settle in and bond with your child. That's
where the relationship begins.
Have a movie marathon
If you all love movies, and have an array of
films that you've put to one side for 'must-sees', then now is a better time
than any. Get the blankets, quilts, pillows, and cushions out, and set them all
down in your living room so you have a huge space to cuddle up, get
comfortable, and watch away. Don't forget though, you need to prepare the
snacks so you don't need to lift a finger once you've sat down. You may also
want to get the number of your local pizza delivery service, as this goes hand
in hand with watching the big screen.
Play virtual games
Get a new game for your child to play if that's
their thing. Take a trip to the game store and let them pick something out.
Having said that, with technology as it is you don't even need to leave the
house anymore. There are tons of games that can be downloaded as an app. So let
them have a racing car and enter competitions online to win trophies. Or let
them discover a new virtual world with the FF15 A New Empire mobile strategy
game, that allows you to build your very own empire,
as well as battling the baddies and slaying the dragons. Sounds pretty cool
huh'?
Hold your own cooking class
If you enjoy cooking and want to share that
passion with your own children, why not hold your own cooking class? Get all
the ingredients that you need, and give a step by step lesson to your little
ones. They are bound to find this fun because it's giving them a bit of
responsibility that they may have never felt before, as well as learning
new skills. And better yet, they
get to eat what they've made, and that in itself is an extremely rewarding
moment.
Go for a hike
If you live in a rather scenic area, get the
family out of the house and go for a walk to discover the beauty of where you
live. Hiking is not only a brilliant family bonding experience, but it's also a
great form of exercise that works both the body and the mind. So get on your
sportswear, pack a rucksack with refreshments and snacks - or even a picnic.
Then once you're ready for a break, find the perfect spot with a magnificent
view, and enjoy each others company.
Encourage their creativity
One of the most important things that you can do
for your children, is to encourage their creativity, and allow them to express themselves through it. Children really
need this (as well as us adults!) It's a form of outlet that is freeing
and liberating. They may find it in art, like painting and sketching, or maybe
making music by playing the guitar or the piano. Whatever it may be, you should
always encourage it, because everyone has to be able to communicate their
feelings and emotions somehow.