Parents across the country are facing at least a two-week period of no school, leaving them home with their kids – and possibly forced to search for other childcare alternatives. Regardless of the home situation, the reality is parents and children don’t have the luxury of playgrounds, playdates, or other public options to stay entertained in attempt to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. I have to admit, I’ve been paranoid and even scared, but it’s so important to be cautious at a time like this. If you’ll be home for the next several days or longer, here’s are some things to do.
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1. Spring cleaning
I really feel like this is the perfect time to jumpstart your spring cleaning. It’s not only great to tidy up your belongings as school and work slow down but to wipe down your surfaces and disinfect heavy traffic areas in the home. Make it fun by delegating chores – even to the little ones like sorting laundry, grouping toys together, and wiping down the toy room. Need more ideas? Start here!
2. Cook a meal together
Baking is our jam – the girls love putting on their little aprons and getting their hands dirty. However, dinner is a different story because school nights don’t allow for it – and honestly, they’re still quite young. Now that you have the luxury of time, change it up and let them participate in dinner too whether it’s setting the table, peeling carrots, or washing vegetables. Even the smallest tasks can help them feel a sense of accomplishment.
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3. Play school
No school? No problem! I remember playing school growing up and loving it. Even if there is no school, I’m a big believer that learning must continue at home. While screen time and computer games are great, it’s even better if you can be the ones teaching it. Then, play the role of a student and let one of the kids teach it back. Thank goodness for technology, you can easily print worksheets or make your own.
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4. Have a talent (or fashion) show
I really try to celebrate creative energy in the home. Playing dress up and having a talent show is the ultimate entertainer. Don’t forget to bring the husband into the mix – or the grandparents if they’re available too!
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5. Bring out the board games
Board games are a classic – especially during the coronavirus lockdown. I love that they can be both informative and educative too. Monopoly teaches them to count and manage money, Scrabble is great for word/reading development, and Chess for critical thinking and strategy.
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6. Go outside
School closures are a measure of social distancing. However, this doesn’t mean you can leave your home and go out in your backyard. Now that the weather is getting milder, start practicing your egg hunts before Easter arrives, have a treasure hunt, plant something, and let the kids ride their bikes. It’s great exercise for the whole family.
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What are you guys doing to stay entertained and busy during the coronavirus lockdown? What are your thoughts about the coronavirus?
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