Seven ways to keep kids busy over the summer holidays

Summer holidays are a time of excitement and freedom for kids, but it can be a challenging period for parents.

Research indicates that 70% of parents feel stressed about the holiday and are ready to send their kids back to school after just one week.

During this time, parents often struggle to keep their children engaged and entertained while managing their jobs and businesses. Therefore, it is essential to get creative in finding ways to keep kids busy.

Without further ado, here are some ways to ensure your children stay entertained and engaged, allowing you to go about your daily activities peacefully during the holiday.

• Create a daily schedule

Creating a schedule will establish a structure and routine for both the kids and parents.

A well-planned schedule will help the kids know exactly what to do and expect each day, reducing disturbance.

For the schedule, you have to indicate the time for different activities such as play, learning, meals, and rest. This will lead to consistency in the kid’s day and they will eventually understand the flow of each day.

• Set up a play area

To keep the kids busy while maintaining calmness, you should designate a specific area for them in the house.

Providing the kids with a specific play area will also help you as parents to manage their activities.

So create a safe play space with age-appropriate toys and games. Ensure the area is also childproofed, comfortable, and stocked with items that will keep them engaged.

To make the space even more exciting, you can switch the toys and activities in the area regularly.

• Provide suppliers for arts and crafts

Arts and crafts activities are a good way to engage and educate the kids.

You can set up an art station filled with suppliers like paper, crayons, markers, glue, scissors, stickers, and glitter.

Meanwhile, you don’t have to spend a lot on the materials, you can make use of the common household items for the crafts.

The crafts can include drawing, painting, and bead-making. You can provide them with specific craft project ideas or allow them to explore their creativity and create their masterpiece.

• Encourage quiet time

Incorporating quiet or reading time into the daily routine can help the kids relax, improve their focus, and develop a love for reading.

The activity can help calm children and give them a break from more active play.

So you can set aside a time when you and your children can enjoy books together. Be sure to choose age-appropriate books that align with their interests and reading level.

• Introduce educational activities

Engaging your kids in educational games and apps can help stimulate their minds while keeping them entertained.

Search for age-appropriate educational apps and games that focus on subjects you know your kids need like math, science, or problem-solving skills.

However, ensure to balance their screen time and supervise their usage to maintain appropriate content.

• Indulge their hobbies and interests

After several months of reading and studying, the summer holiday should be a refreshing period.

In this period, encourage your kids to explore their hobbies and interests.

If your kid has shown interest in music, consider music lessons or learning an instrument. If it’s cooking, encourage them by involving them in the activities.

Do not underrate your kid’s interests, try as much as possible to help them explore and guide them through it.

• Engage them in outdoor activities

Engaging your kids in outdoor activities is another way to keep them busy.

These activities provide the kids with physical exercise, fresh air, and exploration.

So try to arrange regular activities for them, it could include going for walks, visiting local parks, play dates, and outdoor games.

With a little planning and creativity, summer can be a bonding time for the family.

Remember to pick activities that are not only entertaining but will also support their development and well-being.