As the long summer holidays approach, I think as parents we have to accept and prepare.

First we have to accept our kids have activity packed days whilst at school - even if some of the activities are not that enjoyable. They also have a clutch of friends around them to share their time with. Consequently they enter the holidays use to having playmates and things to do permanently at the ready.

Secondly be prepared. We know the holidays are coming, we know the kids will need entertaining at some point, and hopefully we know the kinds of things our kids like to do. Buy in supplies of what you will need to fuel their fun packed activities in advance of the holidays - or if your kids like shopping make it an activity for the first bored day of the holidays. In addition, make a list (either on paper or in your head) of the things you might be able to do over the holidays - have a back up plan to throw back at the cry of "I'm Bored".

So down to suggestions for things you can do...

- Making. For a few weeks prior to the holidays save your boxes, packaging, etc. Robots, space ships, etc will soon start appearing!
- Painting. If you have a garden/yard, get some big sheets of paper (wall paper) spread out, get the kids into as few clothes as possible and set them free! It gives a whole new meaning to body art!
- Baking. There are endless of easy recipes suitable for kids - look for biscuit, cake, sweets, etc. Alternatively get the kids to help you with making dinner - chopping vegetables can be surprisingly enjoyable.
- Park. Go to your local park - take the bikes and a picnic and spend the whole day somewhere new. Why not invite friends to join you and make it into a real outing.
- Hunt for treasure. Design a treasure trail for your little ones - the clues can be suited to the age of the child. You will need to think and set this up in advance - so you can have the clues ready and the treasure hidden. Depending on the space available the map can take them inside or outside the house.
-Picnic. You don't have to take a trip out for a picnic - make a makeshift tent in the house/garden and your kids will think they are true explorers eating out in the wilds.
- Library. Stimulate their minds with some new books.
- Trips. Plan some trips out to some kid orientated attractions - many will have special events on for children in the holidays
Games. Get the games out the cupboards and have your own Olympics! Alternatively if you are feeling a bit more energetic design some sporty games you can all play.

These are just a few ideas - your kids will no doubt have a long list of things they'd like to do - ask them and see what they come up with!

Most of all try and make the holidays fun - try and think of at least one "activity" for each day - this may only be a short painting session, or a quick dash to the park - however short it is it will act to break up the boredom of the day.

Learn more about this author, Marian Routledge.
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