In today’s world technology is everywhere. Kids no longer venture outside to play; instead they spend their time sitting in front of a screen, hands glued onto their sophisticated gaming mouse. While our lives have become more digital, this is not a good thing. Spending too much time sitting in front screens can cause kids to gain weight, develop concentration issues, and sleep poorly. On the other hand, time spent as a family without technology can help relationships. Even though spending quality time as a family has fallen by the wayside, family bonding is still important. Here are 10 things you can do to bond with your kids without technology.
1. Cook a Meal Together
Cooking a family meal together can build a sense of togetherness. Kids can help by doing jobs like grating cheese, stirring a pot, or shaping meatballs. Children will love to be a part of the dinner making process. This is a good way to keep them busy and gives you time to bond with your child.
2. Biking
Go out on a biking adventure around the neighbor or a local biking trail. Taking time to exercise as a family will help you stay fit while also allowing your children get outside and enjoy the outdoors. Consider your kid’s size and preferences when choosing a folding bike or any other type of bikes that are available.
3. Do a Science Experiment
There is nothing better than getting to blow something up, and kids love it when things blow up. One of the easiest science experiments to do is the reaction of vinegar and baking soda. Keep in mind that this is strictly an outdoor activity. To do this you will need an empty 2-liter soda bottle, vinegar, and packets of baking soda. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- For the launch pad, you will need a corkscrew, long screw and a piece of wood. Creating the launch pad is an easy task. Put the screw through the piece of wood. Then twist the cork onto the screw. Make sure that the cork fits securely into the bottle.
- Pour vinegar into the bottle. Quickly pop the paper baking soda packet into the bottle. Place the cork into the bottle and flip it over. The baking soda and vinegar will mix together. This will cause the bottle to fly a few feet up in the air.
4. Play a Family Board Game
Having a weekly family game night can help bring families together. This is a great activity if you have children that are a little older instead of letting them play all day long with their phones, PSPs, or unblocked games room over the internet. If you do not have any board games, you can borrow them friends or sometimes libraries will have some that you can check out.
5. Fly a Kite
Flying a kite on windy days should be something that every child gets to experience. You can choose to make your own or buy a cheap one at the store. Either way, your child will get to spend time with you in the outdoors.
6. Read a Book
Take time to read to your small children. They will love hearing your voice and spending time with you. You can take them to a local library and let them pick out their own books.
7. Arts and Crafts
On a rainy day, staying inside usually means sitting in front of a television. On these days, pick out a craft project to do instead. The age level of your kids will help determine which project to do. Something as simple as jewelry making or sewing for young kids can keep them entertained for hours.
8. Bubbles
Playing with bubbles can be a fun summertime activity. You will need a few containers of water, pipe cleaners, bubble bath or liquid soap. Mix water and soap together, and shape pipe cleaners into different shapes. Blow bubbles in the backyard. For even bigger bubble, fun pull out the small kiddie pool and a hula hoop.
9. Going to the Zoo
Take a day trip to the zoo to see all the animals. The walking around outside will give them some time to exercise. Plus, they can see all of their favorite animals up close. If you are somewhere in San Diego, take your kids for a fun-filled whale watching cruise activity. You could also visit museums and exploratorium in lieu of the zoo.
10. Build a Fort
On days where it is too cold to go outside, build a fort inside. Children of all ages will love to build forts. You can make a tent out of sheets draped over chairs or build a fabulous fort out of cardboard boxes. Allow your child to get creative with your fort.
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