Children require attention and need to be entertained. Although it might be tempting to turn on the television and leave the kids in front of the tv, which they might seem to love, this might not be ideal. Hence this blog explores other activities that can entertain children in a healthier way; some of which strengthen the bond between the parents and child, some being educational while others give the parents some needed free time.
1. Visiting children’s attractions
Most children like playing with other children and visiting places where there are animals. Therefore, one can look for some places around the island that include a children’s play area, hence giving the children an opportunity to make friends and play. Furthermore, there are places that one can visit that have animals for the children to visit. This can be fun, especially since some of these animals cannot be kept as pets.
2. Camp Willingness
Initially this was a programme that was offered in summer, however, due to high demand, it is now also available on Saturdays during the rest of the year. Hence, it can give one time to do things for oneself while having their mind at rest that their children are not only safe but are enjoying themselves and are learning something useful. It is not like any other school that one’s child might attend. The reason behind this is that Camp Willingness is composed of a group of psychologists, counsellors and education experts who create fun activities that aim to develop children’s social skills. This includes learning about emotional intelligence, mindfulness and socialisation (Willingness, 2022).
3. Indoor fun
Whether it is because of bad weather or because one simply does not feel like going out, one might opt to stay indoors. Although the thought of being inside with children sounds challenging, there are a number of things that one can do. Firstly take the time to listen to your child, learn their likes and go ahead with pretend play, ‘spas’, football, drawing, book reading and storytelling. Allow your imagination to flow with theirs and enjoy your time with your children rather than stressing about what one needs or wants to do. Even something simple like eating a meal together could go a long way.
4. Adventure walks
Although places for adventure might be limited in Malta, there are still a number of places that one could visit. Take note of one’s child’s preference, whether it’s walking, going out with a bicycle, roller blades, etc. and find a place suitable for the child’s adventure. This activity prevents a sedentary lifestyle and also helps one build a stronger bond with their kids. One can also spice things up by changing these adventures, from bike rides to looking for snails or picturesque views of the sunset.
5. Cultural walks
Studying certain things about history can be difficult or somewhat boring. Nevertheless, taking the children on cultural walks can be more interesting and educational. Malta is a touristic island with lots of places to visit and taking the opportunity to visit attractions with one’s children while taking a look at one’s history might be surprisingly fun. Re-enacting certain scenes might even take things to the next level.
6. Willingness child-minding
Life has become a marathon, a race against time, trying to balance work, house chores and raising children. Nevertheless, it is important to find some personal time too. Whether it is some alone time with one’s partner or with some friends, Willingness child-minding will be there to step in and take care of one’s kids. There are a group of professionals who will take care of organizing age-appropriate activities that the children will enjoy, giving them some personal space (Willingness, 2022).
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Yasmine Bonnici graduated in Nursing and also completed her Masters in Counselling. She has worked with victims of domestic violence, clients dealing with suicidal ideations, bereavement, separation and anxieties. She is currently working with Willingness Team as a counsellor seeing clients who would like to explore their own identity and deal with any surfacing issues.
REFERENCES
Willingness. (2022). Camp Willingness – Willingness. Willingness. Retrieved 13 September 2022, from https://willingness.com.mt/services/camp-willingness/#.
Willingness. (2022). Childminding – Willingness. Willingness. Retrieved 21 September 2022, from https://willingness.com.mt/services/childminding/.