March Break is swiftly approaching and to avoid any conflicts during the kids week off I am getting all my ducks in a row and planning things to do during our spring staycation. I will have my glue gun at the ready, scrap fabric, glitter, paper pens and playdoh ready to ward off boredom at every turn. Since I know you are just dying to find out how I keep the kids from climbing the walls during Spring Break here are my tried and true sanity savers.
1. Keep a fully stocked craft cupboard. I have half of a full-sized pantry reserved for crafting stuff. It includes glue sticks, paper of all sorts, coloring books, safety scissors, stamps, stickers, paint, playdoh and pretty much everything else you can think of. It’s something I have built up over time, but the investment has paid off. On days when it’s too cold, or rainy or they just want to craft – the kids can go into the cupboard and have free rein. Except for the good stuff on the top shelf. That is reserved for items I have to help with.
2. Board games are another great activity. They can break up the monotony of an afternoon and besides busting boredom encourage good social skills and healthy competition. Board games can also help keep the kids busy while you cook supper, even if they are just playing with made up rules.
3. Plan a picnic. Yes a picnic. If it’s not too cold outside head outside, your backyard is far enough, and enjoy a little fun in the snow. The best thing about a picnic in the winter? No bugs! If it’s just too cold set it up on the floor inside, tape up paper butterflies and flowers and pretend that it’s spring.
4. Head out to the slopes. Around here that means sledding and we go ready with snacks and drinks so that we can stay as long as humanly possible. When we get home I whip up some hot chocolate pop in a few, or ten, mini marshmallows and relive our best slides. If I have them on hand Kinder Eggs too!
5. Movie Marathons are the best post sledding when you are worn out from all that fun. Pick a series of films and watch them in sequence. I am thinking that we might try Ice Ace or Shrek this time.
Of course I also work in daily walks, trips to friends houses and to the mall. I also love playing tourist in my city (when Hubby is around to help). I may even drag the kids out for some mid winter Geocaching. Our new Xbox 360 with Kinect will be getting a workout too. My daughter is determined to beat me at Kinect Sports. I would love to know how you stay sane during spring break.
While you are here I wanted to share with you my excitement over being chosen as a Kinder Ambassador again! Kinder Eggs are something that we include in many of our special days from birthdays to Easter. They have been a part of my traditions and spring breaks for as long as I can remember. Check out the KINDER® Canada Facebook page for a peek at their fun 2012 toy collection, engage in great conversation, and exclusive monthly contests through the My Kinder Moments application. This February they are giving away $500 towards the ultimate staycation!
*Disclosure: I’m part of the Kinder® Mom program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.
Great ideas for keeping the kiddies occupied! I’m a fan of just getting outside and going to the park or for a hike. Public library. Walking around the mall and window shopping. My kid’s pretty easy to entertain and no snow here.
lots of cool ideas to do
thank you for sharing
#kindermom