How to keep kids entertained during school holidays

School holidays are a great time for kids to take a break from the rigor of academic work, but for parents, it can be a time of stress as they try to keep their kids entertained. With the abundance of technology and screen time available, it can be easy to let kids spend their holidays in front of screens. However, it is essential to limit screen time and engage children in other activities that will help them develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills.

Here are some tips on how to keep your kids entertained during school holidays:

1. Plan outings: Take your kids out to places like the park, museum, beach, or cinema. These activities are not only fun but also educational, and they help kids learn about the world around them.

2. Encourage reading: Reading is an excellent way to keep kids engaged and entertained during holidays. Visit the children’s section at your local library and stock up on books that match your child's interests and age. If you don’t yet have a library card, visit your local public library to sign up – it’s free! You will need to bring your ID and proof of residence. If your child would like their own library card, they will need a parent or legal guardian to accompany them and show their birth certificate. This is an investment in your child’s future as a child who reads can learn anything they want. Make it a fun activity and let them choose the books they want. Create a reading corner at home and make it a special time to either read to your kids daily or read together. Remember kids learn by example so get a book for yourself too and make it a habit to read a chapter (or just a page) every day. Here is a list of public libraries in Cape Town: https://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20Home/see-all-city-facilities/our-service-facilities/libraries#Default=%7B%22k%22%3A%22%22%7D#f3f1fa77-4696-43e3-98a1-0926208efb6c=%7B%22k%22%3A%22%22%7D

3. Get creative: Art and craft activities are a great way to keep kids engaged and develop their creativity. You can set up a small art station at home with materials like paints, crayons, markers, and craft paper. Encourage your kids to make cards and paintings. If you celebrate Easter, print some easter colouring pages or let them make Easter cards for their friends and family. You can also paint and decorate easter eggs – buy some edible paint from a baking store (or make your own) and decorate chocolate Hen’s eggs. https://www.learning4kids.net/2014/10/07/homemade-edible-finger-paint/

4. Play games: Board games, puzzles, and card games are a great way to keep kids entertained and develop their strategic thinking skills. You can also organise outdoor games like soccer, basketball, or cricket.

5. Volunteer: Volunteering helps kids learn about the needs of others and instills values like compassion and empathy. You can volunteer at a local animal shelter, organise a neighborhood litter clean-up, or clear out old toys and clothes to donate to a children's home. Contact animal shelters to find out if they have kitty cuddling or dog walking programs suitable for kids. https://tears.org.za/volunteer-at-tears/

6. Organise playdates: Kids love to spend time with their friends, so organize playdates with their friends. Reach out to parents of their friends at school (if you have their contact details or ask the school if they can share). You can plan a picnic or playdate in the park, movie day / night, or games day.

By following these tips, you can create a fun-filled holiday period for your kids that they will always remember.

What other ideas do you have to keep children entertained over school holidays? Do you know of any fun activities or holiday clubs happening in your area? Drop the details in the comments to share.