In an era where video games, tablets, and cell phones are always an arm’s length away, parents seem to have forgotten the simple joys of old-fashioned play where kids would lay on their backs and roll down a grassy hill; trade secrets with tin can telephones; laugh their hearts out as the losing team in a game of tug-of-war topple down like dominoes; and so on.
Not only were old fashion games fun, but they also helped with the development of kids and gave families a great way to bond. So, instead of relying on electronic gadgets to keep your child entertained while at home, try these simple ideas for playtime as well as family activities. They are more fun and offer an array of benefits from enhancing your child’s imagination to instilling some independence. For a start, try these 5 old-fashioned ways to entertain kids.
- Treasure Hunts
The great thing about a treasure hunt is that it can be played both indoors and outside. So, whether it is nice and sunny outside or pouring, you will be able to use this game as a pastime. What’s more, you can keep kids busy for hours by simply finding hiding places that are a little difficult to spot.
As you fun, you are spoilt with options when it comes to ensuring kids enjoy a treasure hunt. You could include obstacles such as jumping into the pool, climbing a low-branched tree, crawling through small spaces, or completing fun challenges in order to retrieve treasures. You can even throw a treasure hunt themed party where kids get to be treated with favorite dishes and party goodies once the hidden treasure is found.
- Bike Racing
Teaching our kids how to ride a bike is a birthright that has been around for a really long time. So, if you are already passing on bike riding skills to your child, why not go ahead and include the full old-fashioned bicycle riding experience of racing. The thrill of a bike race is guaranteed to get your kid outside and away from computers, video games, and the TV. Just make sure to arm your kid with elbow & knee pads as well as a helmet to ensure their safety.
- Acting
When faced with a boring afternoon at home, acting would make a great pastime, as it is fun and educational since it will enhance your child’s imagination. From acting out a favorite book or play, to putting on a magic show, to performing a puppet show, play options are many.
- Cooking
Kids love acting as grownups and would therefore jump at the opportunity to do some actual cooking. The simple act of stirring, sifting, or pouring ingredients, or even setting out the dinner plates would be so much fun to a young child. And the best part is that cooking is more than a great source of entertainment for kids. It also creates an opportunity for you to spend some time with your child as well as teach him or her nutrition, numbers, fractions, and basic life skills.
- Indoor Picnics
A simple way of entertaining kids is adding some fun to everyday activities. And what better way to do that than to have an indoor picnic? The simple act of laying down a tablecloth and sitting everyone down for lunch or supper will be a big treat for children.
Keeping kids amused is not always easy. However, with these pastime ideas, you will be able to do so even without trying hard. You can also introduce your kids to your favorite childhood games. The key here is to bring some good old-fashioned fun into your home.
