2. Bubbles delight kids of all ages. Even an infant, can practice tracking as he follows them with his eyes. Trying to catch bubbles promotes hand-eye coordination and exercise of the pincer grasp. Bubbles can be created with everyday items in a multitude of ways and are a great avenue for experimentation. For instance, bubbles can not only be be tiny or gigantic, but even scented!
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3. Making puppets encourages creativity and builds fine motor skills. Kids can then use the puppets for storytelling, which boosts language and can be a way to facilitate social skills learning.
4. Make a blanket fort. Yes, this is what you used to do as a kid, and yes, it is still fun! Forts are adventurous and provide a quiet space for reading, playing, and resting. The best part - you already have everything you need right at home!
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| Pinterest Pick! |
5. Keeping the balloon (or balloons!) in the air is just plain fun! It also encourages hand-eye coordination and can be a super team-building activity. As simple as blowing up one balloon or as complex as creating "racquets" or using a sheet or parachute, balloons are enticing to toddlers and reluctant teens alike. (Make sure any broken pieces are thrown away!)6. "Free art" is simply setting out art supplies and letting kids make whatever they want. Many kids don't like preplanned crafts, and even those who do appreciate time to invent and draw. This is a great activity to do with your kids and works best when you resist the urge to "help" - unless a meltdown is imminent, of course!
8. Playing “store” or “restaurant” might require some imagination, but it is a well-loved pastime that is adaptable to different skill levels and attention spans. From cooking and a specially designed menu to following the random instructions of a 2 year old, creativity is the goal at play.
9. Freeze dance uses the power of music and movement to foster expression, confidence, and good listening skills. It can even be done in the car to distract kids from the inevitable bickering!
10. Follow the leader can be done anywhere, anytime, and allows for confidence building and leadership development, creativity, and practice taking turns. It is a great distraction method to help kids refocus.
for a sweet treat for neighbors and friends.
