By Gloria Martinez of womenled.org
How to Keep Your Children Learning and Entertained When They’re Stuck Indoors
As a parent, you know all too well the struggle that is keeping your kids entertained on days when they can’t go outside. Whether it’s raining, too cold, or too hot, some days simply call for cozying up indoors and passing the time.
Just because they’re stuck indoors, however, doesn’t mean your kids can’t be productive. There are plenty of activities that you and your children can engage in that will help to stave off boredom, even if you’re dealing with the challenges of working from home. And there are also activities that carry an educational component! If you need some suggestions to get started, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these fun and educational activities for kids who can’t leave the house.
Go shopping.
Online shopping was gaining popularity before the pandemic, but it has now reached a new level. You can now buy pretty much anything from the comfort of your own home. Why not involve your kiddos in the process? For example, have your son or daughter pick out groceries for delivery or curbside pickup. If you’ve been wanting to add some new décor around the house, ask for their opinions as you look through household items online.
Try online tests.
Just because your child is not in school for the day doesn’t mean they can’t learn. And as long as they are computer-literate, your child can access a plethora of educational online activities. Research various math, English, science, and history tests to introduce to your younger kids. If you have older children, they may enjoy learning how to code and develop apps of their own.
Scour YouTube.
Along with online tests, you can find a lot of different things on YouTube. From kid-friendly science projects to art tutorials to exercise videos, spend time looking on YouTube for fun and educational activities that can keep kids and adults alike entertained and healthy.
Dust off the board games.
Sure, kids are generally more interested in video games these days, but classic board games have stood the test of time. Simply put, board games are hard to beat when it comes to entertaining the whole family. Gauge your children’s interests so that you can choose a few games that can engage everyone, whether it is Monopoly, Risk, Battleship, or any other tried-and-true classic.
Set up arts and crafts.
Drawing, painting, and crafts are known to help children in their development. Plus, these types of activities can be a lot of fun. If your kids are stuck indoors, assign them some arts and crafts projects that will keep them stimulated and engage their imagination. From coloring books to freehand drawing to embroidering, the possibilities are endless for kids of all ages.
Learn an instrument
Learning how to play a musical instrument can improve math and reading skills, encourage self-expression, enhance memory skills, and boost self-esteem. If your child shows an affinity for a particular instrument, reach out to an instructor for lessons.
Do a scavenger hunt.
Outdoor scavenger hunts are awesome, but your kids can have just as much fun doing a scavenger hunt inside your home. Make a list of various items, scatter them throughout the house, and assign your child the task of finding them. To sweeten the deal, you can offer a reward if they find all the items within a specified period of time.
Camp inside.
Camping is another activity most often done outside. But, setting up camp in your living room or your child’s bedroom can be a lot of fun and provide opportunities to make new memories. With a few poles, bed sheets, and blankets, you can create a tent and sleeping bags in no time. Go all-in by preparing camping snacks and telling ghost stories with a flashlight!
If your kids are stuck indoors, they don’t have to spend their time being unproductive! Remember the ideas above the next time inclement weather keeps your family from leaving the home, and look for other ways to provide your kids with entertaining, educational activities.