Ensuring they are Engaged
Keeping kids entertained without screen time benefits their development and stirs creativity, social interaction, and physical activity. Here are a few engaging activities that will keep your kids entertained without relying on screens:
Outdoor Activities
Another time-honored summer tradition is playing outdoors and exploring. Plan nature walks, scavenger hunts, bike rides, or visits to local parks. Allow your kids to play with balls and frisbees or engage in physical activities like skipping ropes or hula hoops and, of course, swimming in our Central Florida heat.
Indoor Games
Play classic indoor games like hide-and-seek, charades, Simon Says, or memory games. These activities provide entertainment and improve cognitive abilities.
Arts and Crafts
Get your kids involved with various art projects like drawing, painting, origami, sculpting, or crafting. Provide them with art supplies and let their imagination soar. Photography is also a viable art form, but you risk them using their phones for more screen time.
Board Games and Puzzles
Introduce your kids to the board games, puzzles, or card games you played when you were young that are age appropriate. These games promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills and let you easily participate in an activity with your kid.
Reading
Encourage your child to read age-appropriate books, magazines, or comics. Create a cozy reading corner or organize a family reading time. Creating a summer reading list is a time-honored tradition that will introduce your children to classic literature, history, science, or another topic.
Building and Construction
Offer building blocks, Legos, or other construction toys. Kids can create structures, vehicles, or whole imaginary worlds, promoting spatial awareness and problem-solving.
Music and Dance
Introduce musical instruments, singing, or dancing activities. Kids can create rhythms, compose songs, or have impromptu dance parties, promoting creativity and self-expression.
Cooking and Baking
Involve your children in simple cooking or baking activities with your supervision. Let them measure ingredients, mix, and decorate. This activity helps develop their math skills and promotes a sense of accomplishment.
Science Experiments
Engage children in simple science experiments or kitchen chemistry. Explore concepts like mixing colors, creating volcanoes, or growing plants from seeds. This activity sparks curiosity and promotes hands-on learning.
Remember, while these activities can be engaging, it’s essential to strike a balance and ensure children have adequate screen-free time for rest, relaxation, and unstructured play.
Need a summer solution while you work?
If you live in the Avalon Park or Greater Orlando area, you can enroll your child in Kids R Kids summer camp. They provide a variety of activities to keep your kids entertained and educated. If you are interested, call them at 407-306-9035 or fill out their simple contact form. One of their knowledgeable and friendly staff will be happy to discuss your child’s summer camp enrollment with you!
