Activities to do with your child during COVID at home

The COVID-19 lockdown took a toll on everyone's physical and mental health. However, instead of thinking of lockdown as a prison, consider it an opportunity to spend more time with yourself and your family. That's what we will discuss in this article- the activities families can do together at home and how doing these will keep you and your family sane while strengthening your family's bond at the same time.

Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Children

Children, despite not knowing why they're stuck up in their homes, were significantly affected by the lockdown. Their parents could keep them safe and healthy, but their mental health was left at stake. According to a survey by the Children's Commissioner, a total of 41% of children were reported to feel more stressed in schoolwork and exams. Constant stress puts your child at risk for mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Other factors that contributed to their stress were the lack of social interactions, cancelled events, boredom and a sense of hopelessness.

While parents can aid this by keeping an eye on their children, some cases might need professional help. Seeking professional advice does not mean your child is crazy, nor does it mean that you failed at being a parent. It simply means that you love your child that much and are genuinely concerned with their well-being. Consulting a professional will make it easier for you to determine your child's problems and will guide you on how you can support your child through this phase.

How Parents Can Help Their Children Cope During Lockdown

1. Communicate with them

Check on your children and ask them how they're doing every now and then. This encourages them to open up to you about their feelings, thoughts, and emotions, which prevents them from bottling it up and decreases the risk of breakdowns. It also creates a sense of trust between you and your child, and as they get older, they will see you as someone they can run to if they encounter difficulties in their life.

2. Create a 'no pressure' zone

Be your children's comfort person. Be calm and allow them to create mistakes. Let them explore. Children tend to be very curious to answer all their questions calmly. This will help prevent anxiety and provide a safe learning space for your children.

3. Set a routine

You can prevent children from having negative thoughts or emotions by keeping them busy with activities. The lockdown restricted them from doing their daily routine. Thus, you must provide them with a new one. This will allow them to have a sense of direction and expect something great every day.

4. Do fun things together

In combating negativity, nothing beats a fun bonding time with your children. Below is a list of indoor activities you can do with them at any time.

Indoor Activities Parents Can Enjoy With Their Children

1. Indoor Camping

You don't necessarily need tents to camp indoors. This can be done through a few blankets, mattresses, pillows, roasted marshmallows and snacks. Once you have finished setting up your den, you can put in a board game, play a movie, or telltale stories.

2. Cooking/Baking

Cooking or baking is proven to have a therapeutic effect on our mental health. Thus, this is an excellent activity for the family. Try out a new dish or bake chocolate chip cookies- whatever suits your preference, as long as you're enjoying it with your family.

3. Art

Keep your children busy by engaging with their creative minds. Art materials don't have to be expensive. A few papers, paint, or crayons will do the deed. Creating art can reduce stress and allow them to express emotions they have a hard time saying in words.

4. Scrabble/Word Games

Most board games were designed to be played by more than two people, making them perfect for a family. Besides keeping your mind sharp, this will also improve your children's vocabulary and language skills.

5. Dance

Not only is this a great bonding activity for you and your family, but dancing also produces endorphins, a hormone that promotes happiness. So get moving and dance that negativity away!

Conclusion

We genuinely hope this article was able to shed insight on activities to do with your child during COVID at home. Spending time with your children is the best way to improve your relationship with them and keep them entertained and happy, especially in these trying times. We hope this article was able to share insights on how to bond with your children and maintain a lively routine despite the lockdown.

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