WOMAN 2 WOMAN:Keeping children busy during holidays

Hearing your children utter the two little words, “I’m bored” may be just the thing to make you wish they were back in school. If you find yourself counting down the days until the holiday break is over, it may be a sign you are not spending enough quality time with your children. Children are less likely to get into trouble when they are busy doing an activity that involves creativity and learning new things. This statement is especially true when you, the parent, are a part of the activity. So instead of sticking your children in front of a Television, video game or computer, consider a few activities you can do together: Go to the Library: This will arouse a reading culture in your children. Visit Local Attractions: These may include local museums, churches, art galleries and other area attractions. Let them learn more about the beauty of their country. Prepare a Meal: Children love to feel like they have a role and are needed. From setting the table and cleaning up - children are capable of doing many things around the kitchen. Help with Holiday Duties: Get your child to help make holiday decorations for your home. After they are finished you can place the decorations around the room for the whole family to admire. You can also have your child make gifts to give to other people (Children enjoy making and giving things to friends and relatives). Get Out of the House: It is important for children to stay active. For outdoor activities, take your child for swimming and playing different games especially if do not have enough compound at your home. Invite a Friend Over: Children are less likely to be bored if they have a friend with them. To make it even more beneficial for you, get together with one or two other parents whose child gets along well with yours – that way you are both entertained! Play Games: Board games and card games are a great way to have some fun with your child. With such a wide variety on the market, there is sure to be many games that you both enjoy! Holidays are also a great time for children to meet and spend quality time with grandparents, aunts and uncles, so take your children to meet family and friends over the holidays. It is especially interesting if they live around town (take them to the village) because children look forward to travelling, seeing new places and meeting new people. Such an outing is sure to be an enriching experience for your children and it also helps strengthen bonds between family members. Children are full of energy and curiosity. Keeping them engaged in different activities helps divert this energy in a positive and healthy manner. When children learn, make friends and do things they enjoy, they automatically become amicable and holidays become a fun time instead of one wrought with tension. As the holidays come to end, make sure your children have done all the holiday work from school. Ubernie@gmail.com