What little summer there was this year is beginning to make way for slightly chillier weather moving in and the arrival of Autumn. This turn to the colder side of things may lead to a bit more creative playtime inside to keep your little ones amused and we have had a hunt around and come up with some great ideas that should keep everyone happy when the weather goes against having fun outside.
Have A Film Afternoon
Although playing outside in the cold is manageable there is nothing quite as nice as getting cosy and putting on some classic kid’s films. Be sure to make some popcorn and let your kids decide on what film they want to watch. You might want to go to your local library and see what DVDs are available or you could check out the children’s section on Netflix or another streaming site .
Creating An Autumn Collage
This activity will involve a bit of preparation but can keep kids busy when it is a bit too cold to head outdoors. Encourage your kids to collect natural bits and pieces such as leaves, pine cones, conkers and anything else that sums up Autumn. When they have collected a decent amount of natural art supplies, provide them with art materials such as paper, glue, glitter and paint and get them to make their very own Autumnal collage.
Building A Fort
This is one of the greatest Autumn/Winter activities ever! To create the fort structure you collect sheets, blankets and chairs and then fill it with cushions and pillows to make it amazingly cosy. The kids may be able make the fort on their own but secretly parents love to build them as much as the kids.
Reading Time
For something a little less energetic you can set aside some time for reading. You may want to read to your kids or if they are at an age where they are reading on their own, setting aside some space to have a seat and a relaxing read with them. Another spin on this would be to encourage them to write their own stories. It’s a great way to keep them entertained and keep the television off.
Indoor Picnic Time
Kids enjoy doing the normal everyday stuff in different ways and having lunch in a picnic style is one of those. It doesn’t need to be a special lunch, sandwiches and fruit will suffice, but the variation of location will give it an adventurous flavour and help them to remember the day.
Indoor Picnic (Photo credit: Tessa Horehled)
We hope that you find these ideas inspiring and helpful to help keep your kids entertained as the weather begins to get a bit colder. A break from activity will encourage your kids to use their imagination more and come up with their own ideas. Instructing them that they will have to help out with house work if they ever say they are bored is a great way to ensure this too.
If you have any ideas to keep the kids occupied then please let us know in the comments section below.
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September 17, 2012
Fun