Although summertime is when you most often hear, “I’m bored!”, this can happen anytime the kids are around. As a grandparent, you may have the opportunity to babysit your grandchildren from time to time. Even though you may try your hardest to entertain them, you may find that you need some boredom busters to keep them occupied and happy. Show
When kids are bored, they tend to spend more time on screens and with electronics. They also tend to fight and argue with each other. And of course, they definitely tend to complain more when they are bored. So, it’s good to have some boredom busters handy so they are available when you need them. Being prepared before the kids tell you they’re bored will save you from having to conjure up something in the heat of the moment. So, what kind of things can you have ready? One of the simplest ideas is to have a Boredom Buster Jar. . .or box. . .or whatever. Just have a place where the kids can go to find ideas for something to do. Boredom Buster JarI don’t know about you, but about 15 minutes into the first day of summer, I begin to hear, “I’m bored!” Yes, even at my house, I hear it from the grandkids from time to time. . .especially if they are here when I’m working. To handle the occasional lapse in ideas, I have re-created some jars like the ones that I had when my kids were little. I call them Summer Boredom Buster jars. They really come in handy when you’re babysitting or having the grandkids over for an afternoon. Here are some suggestions for how to create something easily, inexpensively, and quickly:
Even if you already have fun ideas, it’s much more fun to have a jar, box, or whatever to grab activity ideas from. The kids will love it! If you want tons of ideas for your boredom buster jar, check out our Summer Boredom Buster Packet below!Boredom Buster Kits & Stations*Some of the suggestions below have Amazon links for your convenience. See our disclosure page for more info on that. However, most of these items can be found at your local dollar store, discount store, Walmart, or party supply stores. But. . .if you don’t want to go out or run around looking for these things, just pile a few of them in your Amazon cart and save the gas money! Below are some suggestions for putting together specialized boxes or stations where you can cater to your grandchildren’s interests. However, we have started with a simple, generic box of items that will keep the grandkids occupied for hours. Basic Boredom Buster KitCreate a Basic Boredom Buster Kit by putting in some basic supplies that will keep the kids busy during those times when they seem bored. This kit encompasses some of the items you will find in the other kits or boxes. However, this box is more generic. If you are only going to have one box, this is the one.
Game Box
Book Station
Hands-on Box
Outside/Water Box
Scavenger Hunt Box
Art Box
What Will Your Boredom Busters Be?Obviously, these are just suggestions, but hopefully, this list will give you some inspiration for some great boredom busters. Certainly, you don’t have to put everything from each list in each box/station as that could get expensive. But, start with a few things and add to the box/station over time. Put together boxes or set up little stations that match the interests of your grandkids. If they don’t like art, don’t bother putting together an art box. If they like outdoor play, put together items that help them explore and have fun in the outdoors. Add books to the book station as you read them. Books are great “friends” that you can go back to visit over and over. It may be a fun activity to allow your grandchildren to “build” the box/station with you. Gather items up from around your house or go to the store together and let them help pick out the things they would like. Who knows? Your grandkids just might be bored on purpose so they can play with the boredom busters at your house. What should you not do at your grandma's house?To Grandmother's House We Go (A Guide for Grandmas). Don't undermine the parents. Never make it you and the kids against their parents. ... . Keep the indulgences small and simple. Don't give your grandchildren more gifts than the parents do. ... . Follow the rules that are important to the parents.. How do I make my grandma fun?These secrets to being the fun grandparent will ensure the grandkids always want to spend time with you.. Don't Be Afraid to Look Silly.. It's OK to Be Unpredictable Sometimes.. Tell Them Stories About Their Mom or Dad.. Let the Mess Fall Where It May.. Don't Just Give Things, Do Things.. Whenever Possible, Be Flexible.. What does grandparents do at home?For many families, grandparents provide regular child care. In some cases, they are primary caregivers to their grandkids. And whether they live nearby or stay in touch from afar, the love and emotional closeness that grandparents provide makes a big, positive impact on their grandchild's healthy development.
What can I do with my 12 year old granddaughter?Free Grandparent Activities. Gardening.. Visiting a park.. Nature walk or hike.. Doll or bear tea party.. Nature crafts.. Baking – maybe a special family recipe? (Check out our giant assortment of kids' recipes here.). Share special memories from your childhood – look through a photo album.. Sleepover party.. |