How to Keep Kids Busy—and Productive—During Social Distancing
Tips for spending unexpected time at home.
Spring 2020 found many of us unexpectedly at home with our kids, with schools and sports cancelled until further notice. If the coronavirus and social distancing is going to teach us anything, it’s new ways to be creative while staying out of public places. Here, we’re offering some ideas for activities that won’t just keep you busy and productive, they may help kids (and parents!) reduce some stress and anxiety, too. Since we understand that conserving money is important right now, we’ve found activities that require little or no investment, with any supplies available (for less!) at Gabe’s.
Get Mindful
Kids can sense our stress, and they’re more tuned in than you may think. Starting the day with a mindful practice like yoga for kids or a meditation (both available online for free) can be a way for them to feel reassured and calm in the face of some unsettling chaos. Some supplies that can be useful: yoga mat, activewear.
Starting at $3.99
Take a Hike
Experts are advising that we stay out of populated public areas and off of play structures, but kids still need fresh air (and so do you). A hike on a local trail can help you both without exposing you to crowds. Find one easily using local websites or free apps. No wooded areas around you? Try a beach, leafy park, or even just a few laps around your block. Possible supplies: water bottle, hiking shoes or sneakers, socks.
Hydration starting at $1.99
Be More Creative with Crafts
When the usual coloring books have lost their charm, get creative with small twists on the usual fare. Consider hanging art paper to the walls and letting kids draw there directly or try a scavenger hunt where they have to find each of their supplies and then draw a map to their own treasure. Possible supplies: Crayons, art paper, masking tape, scissors, stickers.
School supplies starting at $.99
Encourage Them to Journal
Writing can help kids process their feelings about what’s going on. Are they scared? Do they miss their friends? Are they feeling their parents stress? Encouraging kids to write it in a journal can help them to make sense of what’s going on in a way that feels safe and private. Possible supplies: Pens, journal.
Journal Starting at $1.99
Write Letters
Suddenly, kids are missing school friends that they’re used to seeing every day. The good news? Instant pen pals. While this generation is used to the ease of texting, introducing them to good, old fashioned letter writing will help them be thoughtful in their communications while also giving them a reason to look forward to the arrive of the daily mail. Possible supplies: Stationary, pens, stamps.
Starting at $1.99
Try Home Economics!
Even if you feel overwhelmed at the idea of suddenly homeschooling your kids, there’s one class you’re a pro at: Home Ec. Consider using this as an opportunity to help kids learn to take care of their home, while helping you! Teach them to make a tuna sandwich or start a load of laundry, get their help setting the table or feeding their pets. You’ll be surprised how much kids feel powered by a helpful purpose! Possible supplies: Laundry detergent, home cleaners, baking pans, aprons plus the sugar, butter and flour in your pantry!
Starting at $1.99
Do Some Brain Teasers
Activities like word finds, crosswords, and memory puzzles can help kids to take a mental break from the uncertainty around them while still working on skills like focus, strategy, and even vocabulary words. Possible supplies: Crossword books, brain teaser books, pencils.
Starting at $1.99
Cuddle on the Couch
Productivity is great—but sometimes we just need comfort. Don’t be afraid to let go of expectations in the coming weeks, settle onto the couch, and snuggle in for a movie. These days are unprecedented, and no matter what we will all need some time to decompress, relax, and try to enjoy this unexpected time together. Possible supplies: Snacks, cozy blankets, snuggly pajamas.
Snacks starting at $0.99