Parenting Guide

How to keep children entertained at home

Published by SchoolAdvisor | Mar 30, 2020
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How many times, since Malaysia went under the movement control order since March 18, have you heard, “I am bored” from your kids? This time is especially difficult for parents of young children since they have to find ways to keep the kids entertained throughout the day. So how do you achieve this impossible feat? Here’s how.

Learning time

Firstly, divide the day into parts whereby in one part of the day they will have to sit and study, so that they do not miss out on their education. If their schools are offering online education, nothing can be better but if that is not the case, make sure you sit with them and at least go through everything they have learnt in school thus far.

You can also teach them new things if you can such as knitting, sewing, cutting vegetables, washing dishes and so on because education is not just about academics, true education should also include learning valuable life skills.

Playtime

Of course, a part of the day should be dedicated to playtime too since ‘all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’. You can make the playtime interesting by introducing new kinds of games that help keep them active while also stimulating their mind. One such playtime game idea is playing snake and ladders but each time someone is eaten by a snake they will have to do something as a punishment like jumping 10 times or crawling on the ground.

Hobby time

Have some time set aside for hobbies like art & craft or dancing or singing or whatever they like to do for themselves. If they already attended some classes before the MCO, ask them to practice for some time. If they never attended any classes, they could start a new hobby, for instance, you can also have a relaxing time just sitting together and reading books. This will help them develop a love for reading too, which is a great hobby.

Screen time

Desperate times call for desperate measures. No point trying to control their screen time now since this is a time everyone is at a loss for what to do and how to survive. If you feel tired and exhausted, or just need some time to yourself, take some rest and let them have screen time. This is a trying time for all and breaking some regular rules will not harm anyone. Just make sure to supervise what they are watching or playing.

Just remember that this too shall pass, and this is only temporary. It is important not to panic since children absorb emotions like a sponge and if you are in a negative state of mind, they will be too. Just follow the above and divide the day into four parts to keep them busy and entertained. Don’t forget to enjoy your time with your family and be thankful for what you have. Stay indoors, stay safe.