Keeping kids entertained at home

With home-schooling now in place and working from home now in place across the UK, keeping children entertained and active can be a mighty challenge.

Over the last few weeks, many parents have become scientists, artists, mathematicians and even craft extraordinaire - on top of their day jobs. While there are certainly benefits to spending more time with our little ones, it’s okay to admit that we preferred it when the entertaining of our children was outsourced.

To help you out in these unusual times, here is a list of ideas to keep children occupied:

PE with Joe

For as long as schools are closed, fitness expert Joe Wicks is holding 30-minutes PE sessions live for children on his YouTube channel here every day at 9am from Monday to Friday. With each class lasting around 30 minutes, it’s a good way to use up some energy first thing

Music with Myleene

Keep up with music lessons with the musician’s YouTube channel ‘Myleen’s Music Klass’. Children can enjoy a number of free music lessons - no musical instrument or musical ability is required.

Little cooks

Get the kids in the kitchen and making delicious nutritious snacks that will keep both their hands and brains busy. Chartwells cook along videos with Exec Chef Andrew Walker will not only keep children entertained and learning new skills, but provide them with yummy, healthy snacks. Find these interactive videos on the YouTube channel ‘Simply Delicious, Super Yummy Chartwells’.

Indoor fun

How about challenging the kids to build a fort with sheets and pillows, or bunch up some socks and you’ve got an instant soft ball. Inexpensive and indoor-friendly!

Nature hunts

If you’re fortunate enough to have a garden, why not write a list of things for the children to find in the garden? For example: 4 dandelions, 3 twigs, 2 stones.

Write letters to loved ones

A chance to put writing skills to the test as well as putting smiles on faces. Even more sentimental during this time of social distancing. Win-win.

Talent show

How about getting your children to practice a song, dance routine or even coming up with a play? Have them perform it to you or even make it a virtual performance by setting up a video call with family members further afield.

Getting arty

There are some fantastic free colouring pages online that can be printed, or provide the kids with some old cardboard boxes. Get some crayons and glitter and let their creativity shine.

Flexibility is key

Businesses need to be flexible during these uncertain times, especially with employee working arrangements. At Foodbuy, we’re doing our bit to help reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19 by all working remotely from home. Read our top tips on how to prevent loneliness, stay focussed and keeping healthy whilst working from home here.