The COVID-19 pandemic has put many families’ summer plans on hold. If you, like so many others, will be spending the warmer months at home this year, you may be wondering how to make the most of this time, all the while keeping the children entertained and stimulated. Follow this guide for some inspiration.
Spruce up your garden
If you want your kids to be surrounded by nature and a breath of fresh air, then there is no better place to be than outside in your garden. Here, the kids can play by the outdoor water fountains instead of being cooped up and playing video games inside the house all day. If you have been neglecting your flower beds or you have been meaning to plant a vegetable patch, now is the time to get to work. Did you know that the act of gardening provides families with an excellent bonding opportunity? Never mind the fact that it promises to teach children a variety of important life lessons, like patience and the value of hard work.
Here are some ideas for getting the kids involved:• Pull out weeds together • Let them water the flowers• Encourage them to dig the holes when planting seeds• Assign them gardening ‘chores’ to teach them responsibility • Involve them in selecting the flowers, plants, and vegetables that you grow • DIY some bird boxes or bird feeders
Another great idea is to construct a fishpond, with the help of world-class supplies from water-garden.co.uk, and to let your older kids care for it. It is the perfect way to investigate whether they are ready for a more demanding pet, like a puppy or a kitten.
Experiment with new flavours
Why not try your hand at a new cuisine or simply sample some exotic foods from which you might ordinarily shy away? Experimenting with different summertime flavours and foods is important, especially when your kids are still young. Doing so can help to curb fussy eating tendencies and transform them into more adventurous eaters. Getting them involved in the cooking process is also a wonderful way to hone their mathematics skills, motor skills, and more.
Have a picnic
Once you and the kids have whipped up something fresh and tasty in the kitchen, why not take the meal outside and savour it in the sunshine? You will be able to enjoy the warmth of the sun on your skin, some fresh air, and the beauty of your garden – all of which is guaranteed to lift your spirits.
Watch your all-time favourite summer-inspired films
Take a trip down memory lane and introduce the children to some of your favourite summer movies. A few top family-friendly choices include:• The Sandlot• The Parent Trap • The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants• Flipper• Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Camp outside in the garden
Camping is a popular summer pastime, and the great news is that you do not need to leave the safety of your home to enjoy it! Simply set up camp in your garden and make the most of a similar experience. Sit under the stars, light a campfire, and indulge in all of your family camping traditions with a smile on your face.
Just because summertime won’t be what you expected, doesn’t mean that it won’t be special!