Category: Children’s Activities

There are tons of ideas out there for how to make your children’s playroom the perfect place for their creativity to grow. It can be overwhelming to know where to start as you begin to plan.

Fortunately, we’re here to let you in on five kid’s playroom essentials to make life easier as you design their playtime area. You’ll see how easy it can be to create a space for your children to learn and play in their own special place.

1. Functional and Fun Furniture

When you’re looking for your playroom furniture, try to find pieces that are both useful and playful. Fun bean bag chairs or children’s rocking chair pieces are perfect for this.

Bookcases are a must to hold all the best children’s books and stories you’ll read to your children to spark their love of words. It’s also a wonderful idea to buy a rug or play mat that will make it more comfortable to play on the floor and avoid any injuries from a fall.

2. Distinct Areas

Your kids may have just one playroom, but that doesn’t mean they need to feel limited. Creating multiple different areas in the room gives the opportunity to switch gears easily.

Tents are becoming more and more popular as a little escape within the room. A good desk for drawing, painting, and even building with blocks is a great idea.

3. Good Storage

Utilizing good storage as much as possible is essential for keeping a well-organized play area and avoiding a huge mess. Using a variety of shelves, bins, and cute baskets are the key to keeping things in order and easy to get to.

4. Whimsical Decor

Decorating your child’s playroom is going to be the most fun part of the whole process. Of course, what you choose will depend on your kid’s preferences, but there are almost limitless options on what to use.

Wall decals are an affordable and fun way to add a lot of oomph to the room. These will also help you decide what bright mix of colors you should paint the walls. Even curtains and lamps can add to the creative vibe you’re trying to create.

5. Toys

This is probably going to be the biggest reason your child loves their playroom, so it’s a good idea to spend some time really thinking about what toys you choose.

Of course, they’ll have their go-to favorites but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate some exciting new things. A small kid’s gym is a fun way to keep children active and simple to install.

Children’s Playroom Essentials

Designing your children’s playroom may seem daunting but will probably be one of the most fun things you’ll do all year. Make sure to incorporate the five essentials from above and you’ll definitely have a happy child on your hands.

Are you looking for more ideas on how to keep your kids happy? Check out more tips and tricks here on our blog to keep you up to date on the latest ideas.

If you’re looking for gifts for your children that crank up the cuteness factor while keeping them entertained for ages, cowboy accessories are the way to go.

Rather than sitting your kid in front of an iPad or Xbox, you can give them the gift of some truly old-school playtime with some adorable cowboy and Indian accessories that they can enjoy with their siblings and friends. With that in mind, here are some of the best cowboy accessories for kids that you absolutely need to buy for their toy box in 2021. 

1. A Rootin’ Tootin’ Cowboy Hat

If you’re looking for cowboy accessories kids will love, a classic cowboy hat is an absolute must. There are countless ones to choose from. There is this classic cowboy hat for kids, complete with an authentic-looking rawhide finish that will leave your little one looking just like a miniature Clint Eastwood.

When shopping for cowboy hat accessories for young children, it is important that you carefully choose one that will fit their head size and shape. The last thing you want is for their little cowboy hat to keep falling off their head when they are trying to round up some cattle! 

2. A Wooden Stick Horse

To add a true element of play into your child’s cowboy action accessories collection, a wooden stick horse is a sure-fire winner. Wooden stick horses are great cowboy accessories for boys and girls and are among some of the most popular girl toys on the market in some parts of the world.

A great thing about wooden stick horses, also known as hobby horses, is that there is a huge variety of types available. You can choose a white princess stick horse or a classic brown cowboy stick horse, depending on what your kid will enjoy the most. 

3. Adorable Cowboy Boots 

No kid’s cowboy ensemble would be complete without some adorable cowboy boots for them to kick up some dust with. As this guide to the best toddler cowboy boots explains, there are a number of factors you will have to consider.

Like any shoes for young children, you will need to make sure that they are the right size and that they have the appropriate levels of child foot support so that they are comfortable at all times. 

4. Cowboy Books 

One of the best things about cowboy accessories is that it opens up a vast world of history, fantasy, and play that your children can become totally immersed in. That is why you should also invest in some classic cowboy books to inspire your little ones.

There are hundreds of classic cowboy books for you to choose from, ranging from classic short stories to illustrated cowboy adventures to real-life histories of some of the most famous figures of the Old West. 

5. Additional Cowboy Accessories for Kids

To complete your child’s cowboy collection, there are a few other accessories with buying. A child’s holster belt with a plastic sharpshooter toy or a spud gun are good options, but this is not for everyone.

A little leather satchel bag for them to carry their toys and cowboy books is also a good idea, as is a little fake bolo tie or some little cowboy pants. The list is really endless and will provide you with gift ideas for years to come. 

Treat Your Kids on the Cheap in 2021 

Investing in some cowboy accessories can be a hugely effective way to keep your children entertained, engaged, and learning on a budget. Rather than splashing out on fancy electronics, you can keep it old school and help your kids grow and play without breaking the bank. For more essential tips on treating your kids on the cheap in 2021, make sure to read our extensive Family Life guides for all of the expert budgeting advice you could ever need. 

Traveling with kids is much different than traveling alone or with a friend or spouse. If you’ve ever traveled with children before, then you know how much work it really is. There are many things to take into consideration before bringing children with you somewhere. 

For example, is the place you’re traveling to child friendly? Can you use your stroller? What type of public transportation is there?

Are there things to do there to keep the children entertained? There are some places that are better to travel to with kids than others. In the guide below, you’ll discover several of the best places to travel with kids. 

Continue reading below to find out more!

1. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a great travel destination if you’re looking to keep your little ones entertained the entire time. There’s so much to do, including Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360, Ocean Park, and even a tram ride that’ll take you to Victoria Peak! The little ones will have a blast here.

Navigating around Hong Kong is simple due to many different public transportation options. The trains can get quite full during the busy hours, so the smaller the stroller the better, but otherwise you shouldn’t have any problems. Don’t forget to ride the Star Ferry as well. 

It gives you the opportunity to avoid busy streets and observe beautiful views of the water. 

2. Route 66

The historic Route 66 road trip takes you from Chicago to Santa Monica. If you have an RV, then it’s time to load up the kids and hit the road! This road trip can be completed in about two weeks.

There’s also much to do along the way. In Chicago, be sure to visit the Navy Pier. In Springfield, stop by The Land of Lincoln where Abraham Lincoln resided. 

In Tusla, you can visit the Big Blue Whale of Catoosa! These are just a few of the many attractions along the route. 

3. California 

California is another great destination option when traveling with children. Here, you have Disneyland, Death Valley National Park, the Golden Gate Bridge, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and so much more! Your options here are endless. 

While visiting, you can also check out a Dream Big Children’s Center. These centers are dedicated to providing warm, welcoming, and fun ABA (applied behavior analysis) centers for young children. 

4. Colorado 

The last stop on our list is Colorado. Colorado has many great outdoor activities for young children to do and many places for them to explore. Manitou Springs is a great place to let the children explore. 

There’s even a historic penny arcade with a park nearby. Colorado also provides many hiking trails, and snow sledding opportunities as well. 

When Traveling With Kids, Be Sure to Consider These Stops

Traveling with kids is much more work than when traveling without them, but it’s worth it in the end. You want to give your children a wonderful experience they’ll remember for the rest of their lives. Use the tips listed in this guide above to ensure you do just that!

For more family life topics, be sure to visit here on a regular basis!

During the coronavirus pandemic, around 93% of American households with school-age children had to do distance learning from home.

This makes children’s downtime more essential than normal because they can’t enjoy the afternoon with friends or leave the house. Luckily, with a little creativity, it’s possible to keep your little ones entertained.

If you’re looking for cheap activities for kids, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 10 to inspire you.

1. Plan a Scavenger Hunt 

Brainstorming fun activities for kids?

Scatter items around your home and read out a list of riddles (e.g. “a food that easily cracks”) to the little ones. Reward children with trinkets whenever they get one but give the overall winner a big prize like choosing dinner that night.

Or, if you’ve got kindergartners, try a nature color hunt. This is where you paint the inside of a used egg carton in different colors and ask the kids to match each one with a real-life object. For instance, find a daffodil in the backyard and put it in the yellow pocket.

2. Build a Blanket Fort 

One of the best cheap indoor activities for kids is to build a blanket fort as a family. Not only does it get your children away from the screen, but it encourages creativity. You can even turn it into a competition to see who can make the biggest or most unique blanket fort.

3. Make Gingerbread Houses

If you’re looking for cheap Christmas activities for kids, spend the afternoon making gingerbread houses. Gather plenty of frosting, candy, and get everyone involved to make colorful houses either as teams or individually.  

Or make holiday cookies like snowmen or reindeers, perfect for children of all ages. Let the younger children add pre-measured ingredients and decorate their cookies with their favorite toppings.

4. Schedule a Family Fitness Class 

Your child’s school will have plenty of school activities for kids planned so break up lessons by having a family fitness class, so your little ones get their daily exercise.

You can either practice yoga by watching YouTube videos or try a new sport and practice in the yard. Don’t worry about intense workouts, just set aside 20 minutes a day to get your little ones moving between classes.   

Or, to make it less serious, throw a dance party as it’s a fantastic way to relieve stress, laugh, and move your body.

5. Go for a Long Walk

Parents planning easy activities for kids shouldn’t underestimate the power of afternoon walks. Make sure you follow the social distancing guidelines and go out when there are fewer people like around dusk when your neighbors are having dinner. 

You could also drive into the countryside so your little ones can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the fresh air.

6. Movie Marathon 

A fantastic way to keep the kids entertained is to throw a movie marathon night. Get comfortable on the couch with cushions, blankets, and make sure there’s a steady flow of popcorn. You can either watch a series like Harry Potter or the Minions movies for younger ones. 

Or if you want to make it educational, put on documentaries suitable for children like March of the Penguins and Walking with Dinosaurs.

7. Cook Together 

Cooking healthy meals with your kids teaches them how to eat a balanced diet and helps them become adventurous eaters. These skills are invaluable, and your child will carry them throughout their life. You can whip up homemade pizza, chicken skewers, and fajitas. 

More competitive families can have a cooking competition. To do this, divide the family into two teams and hand out five ingredients for everyone to work with, and set the timer. Make it more exciting by adding random ingredients like trying to incorporate marshmallows into a savory dish.

8. Garden

Gardening has many advantages for children such as teaching responsibility, letting them explore with their senses, and offering mood-boosting benefits. Not to mention, plenty of family bonding time. 

Planting a vegetable garden is also productive as you can harvest them later on. You should grow green beans, tomatoes, and root veggies like carrots, so you have plenty to eat. If you’re a beginner, start small by creating 11 rows so there’s enough spacing between the plants.

Don’t worry if you live in an apartment, simply grow vegetables or herbs in containers and place them on your windowsill or balcony.

9. Backyard Camping 

You may be unable to visit the nearest National Park, but you don’t have to sacrifice a weekend camping. Invest in a firepit, or make your own, so you can make s’mores and spend the night camping in the backyard. And you mustn’t forget to share child-friendly ghost stories for entertainment.

10. Game Night 

Ditch the consoles and bring out old-school board games for the whole family to enjoy. Try a new one next week to keep it interesting and try Twister, Risk, and parlor games like Charades. You can also have a tournament night with children’s card games like Go Fish, Snap, and Old Maid.

Those Are Cheap Activities for Kids 

Now you know the best cheap activities for kids. 

Whether it’s planning a scavenger hunt in the yard or working out together, it’s important children are getting enough exercise, fresh air, and are stimulated amidst all their schoolwork. Make an effort to switch activities up during the week so they stay excited while you bond. Have fun!

Did you find this article helpful? Great news! Then check out our posts on everything from Family to Relationships.

Wondering how to get your kids to exercise more?

Are you worried that your children aren’t as active as they should be?

While there is a lot to think about when raising children, exercise for kids is one thing that shouldn’t be overlooked. To grow up healthy and strong, it’s important that your kids get adequate exercise and remain active on a consistent basis, rather than staying inside all of the time.

Luckily, we’ve got you covered. Below we’ll tell you about 5 super fun ways you can get your kids to exercise more.

1. Get the Right Gear

One of the best ways to get your kids to play outside and to exercise more is to make sure that they have the right toys and gear to do it.

Buying a trampoline, bicycles for your kids to ride, or owning other fun outdoor equipment can make a huge impact on how much exercise your kids get. Backyard playsets can also be great for kids and can encourage them to stay active.

2. Consider Active Gaming

These days, many kids prefer to stay inside playing video games instead of going outside and doing fun activities. If you’re desperate to get your kids to exercise more often then you might not want to reinvent the wheel or ask for too much too soon.

Getting a motion-controlled gaming system such as the Wii that requires players to stand, move, and wave their arms to play can be a great gateway to a more active lifestyle. The Kinect for the Xbox or the Playstation Move can also be good options.

3. Encourage Team Sports

Encouraging your children to join their school’s basketball team, baseball team, or another sports team can be a great idea and will benefit your kids in several ways. These sports will get them moving on a regular basis and will also be a great social activity that can help them make new friends.

However, if none of the sports at your child’s school appeals to them there are other options. Karate, ballet, gymnastics, swimming, and even yoga classes can also be good possibilities.

4. Take an Active Vacation

Another great way to get your kids to be more active is to take them on a fun vacation.

When going on a trip to the beach, for example, you can give your kids a chance to swim in the ocean, try their hand at snorkeling, play mini-golf or fly a kite. A hiking or kayaking trip to the mountains can also be a lot of fun.

Going on a vacation to a fun destination can open up new opportunities for outdoor activities and this can make being active a lot more exciting for kids.

5. Become a Great Role Model

One final thing you can do to get your kids exercising more is to become a role model. If your kids see that you’re living an active lifestyle, they’ll naturally want to join in and learn about the activities you’re doing. Many kids want to be like their parents and will take on the same habits and interests.

By living an active lifestyle, regularly exercising, and trying new activities often your kids will want to do the same.

Understanding the Importance of Exercise For Kids

If you’re trying to make sure your children grow up happy and healthy, you need to take exercise for kids into consideration. Be sure that you’re using the tips above to get your kids into the outdoors and to help them become more active.

Looking for more family tips and guides? Explore our blog now to find more interesting articles and useful advice.