It
really means something when someone is comfortable with you caring for their child.
Seriously, it is big deal, this person is trusting their little human to be in
your care unsupervised. Once that cheerful smile and reassuring “absolutely I’d
love to” moment has worn off, you must now find an activity to entertain the
little one. The trick is to find something fun and exciting to without spending
an entire inheritance on one afternoon.
In
my younger days, Chuckie Cheese was the first thing that popped into my
mind with my nephew. I would spend around $20 (shoutout to my plug) each
time in the hopes that the nephew would exhaust himself. This worked for some
time until my nephew said those fatal words, "Uncle , I’m too old for Chuckie
Cheese". Entertaining your nieces and nephews is important because you
always want them to have fun with you. But how do you avoid over paying just to
keep the kid busy?? Below I’ve provided tested and approved ways to have a good
time without over spending.
Inspire
the next Basquait
I
watched my nephew yesterday and took it as a challenge to ensure he had a good
day. We started the day off with painting. Kids love painting and it
allows them to show their creativity. Self-expression should be encouraged from
an early age and embraced. There is no greater moment than watching a kid hold
up what they created once they’re picked up from your house. Crafty activities
are great because children enjoy them and it does not cost you an arm and leg.
The
Pool
Nothing
tires a kid out like being in the sun all day. I can remember being ordered
outside all day until the streetlights came on. I thought this was an attempt
to keep us out of the house all day not realizing it was truly an attempt to tire
us out. If you don’t own a pool call your friend with a pool. He's going to
repay that favor of you helping him move in by allowing the kid to burn off
energy. Hell you may even get some lunch out of your friend during this pool
day!
Take
a Hike
If
you’re lucky to live near a park or hiking area, take full advantage while you
babysit. If you’re the aunt or uncle, it’s important to create situations
that cultivate open communication. This hike allows you a chance to ask them anything
and gives you a chance to drop a few gems on their young minds. You can show
them what else life has to offer outside of their Gameboys and Iphones. Make
the most of this time because it’s a rare moment to have their undivided
attention away from all the gadgets. There are so many activities you can do at
a park. You can play sports, fly kites, have a picnic, and even do more arts
and crafts.
Children’s
Museums
One
of my favorite things to do with kids is teach them things while having fun.
Most cities have museums with an emphasis on children. I love going to the
science museum where they have different attractions each month with a hands on
approach for all ages. The best thing about these museums is their usually FREE.
Make
cookies
I
love oatmeal cookies and I would reconsider an enemy if you tell me they too
love oatmeal cookies. Yes, it is that serious to me. And what do kids love more
than cookies??? So making cookies with kids is sure to be a hit. The only
battle you will have with this is who gets to lick the spoon/bowl at the end. Sure
you could buy cookies from the store or you can take those few extra minutes
and create a special moment……
-@theNewCheap
No comments:
Post a Comment