In this month’s column, Vicki Harris of key partner From Suffolk With Love comes up with some ideas for cheap – or free activities – to keep the kids entertained over the Easter holidays.
Craft kits
The idea of craft strikes fear into many of us, with paint splattered kitchens and various bits of furniture covered in glue in the back of our minds. However, there are some fantastic Easter packs on Etsy that involve puzzles and games that you can either download or order to be sent to your door. Have a look for one with puzzles, colouring and different game suggestions, and minimal paint and gluing! I think this one is brilliant: Easter Art Kids Activity Art & Craft PDF Easter Craft | Etsy UK.
Egg hunts
Check your town group on social media to see if there are any Easter egg hunts going on. They are usually free or very low cost. Failing that make your own! You don’t have to use chocolate eggs, instead you can use little boxes or reusable egg toys to put silly activities in or different types of small prizes that they will love. You could always hide a few cuddly toys around the garden instead and find them!
Let them run around
If it’s all getting a bit stressful indoors find your nearest free space and get them running around for an hour or two. Take snacks and drinks to avoid expensive snack stops and save on waste! The local park is usually a good place to start, but you can search for nearby areas with free parking and lots of space.
Let them get bored
In the parenting book I’ve been reading (I know, but it’s quite interesting!) it says it’s a really good idea to let your kids get bored sometimes. This means turning off tech and having nothing prepared for them to do. In theory, they should start exploring things they are interested in and find their own fun. In reality, your house may get trashed, but it’s worth a shot! (The book is ‘How to be a Calm Parent by Sarah Ockwell-Smith in case you’re interested).
Meet friends
Meeting up with friends always makes the time go faster! Arrange for a day or two with friends to help pass the time and keep everyone happy. Mums (or dads!) can have a good catch up and a cuppa and the kids can entertain each other. Win, win!
Have a Yes Day
A yes day is a day where they choose to do what they want for the entire day, no matter what (set your boundaries on costs if you need to!). This one may be an expensive one, but the kids will love it and they may be happier for the next few days if you’re lucky! Or, you could have a chill out day and spoil them with a Kid’s Bliss Box, one of the plastic free gift boxes that I put together at From Suffolk With Love. Get yourself to a Bliss Box too and it’s a treat day all round!
Whatever you get up to, I wish you a very happy Easter and a well-earned rest when the kids get back to school!
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