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Having come from a large family, I learned at a very young age to share and to make do with what I had. Unfortunately, in today's day and age, children have more and therefore, are harder to please. Simple pleasures seem to have been conveniently forgotten.
If your child is exhibiting signs of restlessness, it may be time to take a step backward and rediscover the simple pleasures.
It’s so easy you’ll hit yourself over the head for not having thought of it earlier.
Children should be encouraged to spend time outdoors. As the care-giver, your job includes slapping on the sun block and opening the door. Period. Children can and will entertain themselves if you step aside.
Hand them a box of colored chalk and watch their imaginations flow. Add a large bottle of bubbles and there's no telling how high they can fly. Add glycerine to dish soap and water and make your own bubble blow. Pour the liquid into a frying pan and cut out the inside of a fly swatter, leaving just the outside edge and you've created a tool for monster bubbles. Could your kid resist that?
And let's not forget the simple sand box. Every child, regardless of age, enjoys the sand box. Purchase castle molds, they're not just for the beach, you know, and let your child create. Let them get wet and dirty, without reprimand, and they'll soon have the garden hose added to the mix as they construct a castle moot, and make rainbows in the grass.
If you have the space, allow your child his or her own space for gardening. I promise you, they'll love it. Give them the freedom to choose their own flowers, but make sure they're in charge of upkeep. You'll be surprised at how eager they will be keep their garden looking it's best. Harvesting and drying flowers and herbs can be a fun project the two of you can enjoy together, as well.
There is much to be said about the proverbial ‘‘Lemonade Stand,” but, unless you plan on spending a lot of time with your child, I wouldn't suggest it. Children and strangers, even nice ones who look as though they're only interested in lemonade, don't mix.
Several other inexpensive ways to keep children happy, safe and quiet, are the library and Vacation Bible programs. Check into your library for summer programs, or sign your child up for his or her first library card. Vacation Bible School is another great source of entertainment and education. Give the local church a call and see what they have in store for this summer.
The rewards are endless!
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