Fun New Things to Try with Your Child

I'm always amazed by how much being a parent can expand your view of the world and give you new experiences. You think you're all grown up and you've seen everything there is to see, but being a mum opens your eyes. I've done lots of things with my little boy that I don't think I would have done if he wasn't around. There are so many fun things you can do together that can be a learning experience for both of you. In fact, I think I learn more when I do things with my son because I get his perspective too. Try out some of my top educational activities to try out with your children.

Making Christmas Decorations

It's that time of year, and it's great to try out some different Christmas-themed activities with your kids. If you think you're not very creative, you could surprise yourself by doing some crafts with your children. Start by looking for some ideas to inspire you so you can show the kids what to do. As you all get into it, everyone will come up with their own ideas and make some fantastic decorations. Your child can teach you a lot about being creative. And you can encourage them to use their imagination and develop their skills. You can do crafts with the kids all year too.

(Image from Chris Parfitt)

Growing Your Own Food

Taking care of something together is a great way to bond with your child. Some parents might bring a pet into the family, but you can also start growing something. Kids love seeing something they've worked on begin to grow. If you grow fruit and vegetables, you can eventually eat what you've grown. Go to http://www.pomonafruits.co.uk/ to find some plants that are perfect for beginners or experts. It can be a project that lasts you for ages, from planting to harvesting your produce and cooking with it. Soon your child won't be able to wait to get outside.

Learning a Language

Learning a new language can be a lot of fun and fascinating. If you want your child to learn a second language, you can take the opportunity to learn too. When you're helping them at home, you'll start to pick up some things too. However, you might want to sign both of you up for classes separately too. Don't be surprised if they pick it up faster than you, as it's much easier for children than adults. That can be a good thing, though, as they can help you to learn more.

Adventure Sports

Having kids is excellent for pushing you out of your comfort zone. You can find yourself putting on a brave face and doing things you're scared of just to show your children there's nothing to worry about. If your child loves trying adventurous things, you could have a go at something thrilling together. It could be anything from doing a ropes course to learning to surf.

When you show your children the world, take the opportunity to add to your experiences too. They can give you the chance to learn and do new things.

Toy-Free Gift Ideas For The Kids

If you know the Grandparents have bought sack loads of toys for the kids this Christmas, you may be wondering what’s left for you to buy. Like sweets and chocolates, parents aren’t keen for kids to have too many toys at once. Fortunately, there are still plenty of awesome gift ideas for your children this year. You don’t need to resort to the sweet stuff or games if you want a great gift for the kids.

Most kids have a favourite movie or TV character. You can always look around for childrens bedding that features your child’s favourite this year. Decorating their room is a great idea for a Christmas gift. And it will last much longer than chocolates or toys too. Starting with the bedding, you could also add a lamp shade, poster, or rug to the mix. Then, of course, you’ll need to invite his friends over so he can show them his new bedroom!

Books may seem old fashioned to some kids, but smaller children love having a book in their hand. Look out for books with flaps to open or things to move. These are certainly a firm favourite. Some books, like Mog, are part of a large series that your children can collect and read over time. Older children may prefer their titles on a Kindle or other eReader. This can be a cheaper and less space consuming way to keep your kids interested in literature.

(Pic from Earl53)

Clothing can be a very boring present to open on Christmas morning. But if it bears the image of a favourite TV character, chances are they’ll be rushing off to try it on. Most kids need new clothes every few months as they grow so rapidly. Christmas is the ideal time to pick up some outfits. Choose items that are likely to appeal if they are for a gift, though.

If your child has shown an interest in music, this year could be the year to introduce them to a musical instrument. There are plenty of free online lessons to get you started. Most classical instruments come in cheap and cheerful student outfits too. This means you haven’t spent too much if your child ends up not being that interested in the long term. Even a very young child could benefit from a small musical instrument this Christmas. You might want some earplugs too!

Older children that are interested in sports might be delighted to receive some kit or equipment. Scooters, footballs, and skateboards are all great ways for your kids to stay active. Alternatively, a voucher for some lessons or membership to a club could be a wonderful gift for a sporty child. Dance classes are also very popular at the moment. You can usually buy a term of classes as a gift.

If you’re fed up with tidying away unwanted toys every Christmas, why not try some of these ideas instead this year? You can find plenty to keep a child amused during the holidays. Have a wonderful Christmas with the kids.