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Showing posts sorted by relevance for query kids activity. Sort by date Show all posts

How to Get Your Children to Start Exercising

 Kids are more likely to be physically active than adults. They are more active than adults because they have a lot of energy, they don't have many responsibilities, plus kids naturally like to stay physically active compared to adults. While children tend to stay active during school thanks to recess and physical education, it’s important that outside of school, a child stays active as well.


You want your kids to stay physically active. Parents want to do this because physical activities help in bone and muscle development. They can also play a positive role in improving mental health. However, physical activity is not restricted to just playing sports. If your child is interested in dancing, you can send them to a top dance school in Singapore. Dancing is a physically exhausting activity that can help them with growth and development. It is also an exceptional skill to pick up.


When you start exercising with your kids, it can be a very enjoyable experience for both of you. You'll be able to bond over physical activity, and your children will get in shape and learn how important physical activity is for their health. Many people find that exercising with their kids is a great way to start getting them involved in healthy habits from an early age. These healthy habits can last a lifetime, and it helps push your child into knowing and understanding the importance of these habits.

While the idea itself of getting your child physically active seems easy, it’s also something that you don’t want to force or push on too heavy. As this can risk them only losing more interest in staying physically active. So these are some ways to get your child to exercise, whether it’s with you or alone.

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What Are Some Great Ways to Get Kids To Exercise?

Your family could be making health mistakes right now, and none of you could notice it. One of the more common mistakes a family makes is the lack of physical activity, i.e. exercise. Some of the ways that parents can encourage their kids to exercise are by making it a family activity, going on walks together, and taking part in outdoor activities.

 It is important for parents to create a routine for their children and make sure that they are doing something every day. It is also important for them to make sure that their children have fun when exercising. The key is finding what works best for your family and sticking with it.

Different Ways to Help Kids Stay Motivated through Exercising

While making exercise a family activity is great, it can be hard to push your child into feeling the motivation to do that, let alone other forms of physical activity. So what are some of the best ways to keep your kid motivated to exercise? It doesn’t hurt to think outside the box! One of the more popular ways to get a child active is through video games. 

While video games are known for getting kids to sit and be glued to the couch nonstop, some games were made for the sole purpose of staying active. This can include games that were meant to be used for working out (such as Wii Fit), boxing video games, and even dancing video games such as Dance Dance Revolution.

While video games can be one of the more unique ways to get your little one to exercise, it’s not the only way either. Another way is by doing a variety of physical activities that they enjoy. And one more way would be by listening to music and having fun at work while trying to work out. One of the best ways to get kids motivated would be to have them participate in an activity they are passionate about. For example, if a kid loves football, then it would be easier for him or her to stay motivated and to play it. You can even top it all off by giving your child some sportswear singlets to wear for exercising as well. Overall, when it comes to children, you just have to think outside the box to get them to feel motivated.

Do Exercise Programs Work?

The phrase “exercise program” can be quite flexible as it has different meanings. For some, it may be something such as a camp or retreat, and for others, it may be just workout classes or a sports team. In general, exercise programs can be a great way to push your child to stay active while also getting them to be social. This can include a sports team, dance classes, karate classes, and so much more. Just talk to your child to see what they may like.

What Age Can Children Start Doing Certain Exercise-Related Activities?

While it all depends on a child's age, it’s best to try to get them hooked on exercise/ physical activity at a young age. Small children, especially toddlers absolutely love to run. So why not encourage some running? While different physical-related activities all depend on the age of your little one, you can usually just use your intuition on what may be age-appropriate. For instance, it’s age-appropriate for a 6-year-old to ride a bike or roller skate, and it’s age-appropriate for a 13-year-old to try out skateboarding. 


Fun and Creative Kids Activity: Stamping Bunches of Grapes Process Art

 Looking for a fun and creative kids activity that is both educational and festive? Look no further than stamping bunches of grapes with pencil erasers and wine corks! This activity is perfect for kids of all ages, and it can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors.


We love to paint with all kinds of things! From wine corks, to dried flower heads, and everything in between. This easy painting project is perfect for kids of all ages. Little ones will love working on a few bunches or grapes, while tweens and teens can create more elaborate works of art.

What is Process Art for Kids

Process art for kids is a type of art where the focus is on the process of creating the art, rather than the finished product. This type of art is often open-ended and allows kids to be creative and expressive. There are many different types of process art that kids can do, such as:

  • Painting
  • Drawing
  • Collage
  • Sculpture
  • Performance art
  • Installation art

Process art is a great way for kids to explore their creativity and to learn about different art materials and techniques. It can also help them to develop their fine motor skills and their problem-solving skills.

Here are some tips for doing process art with kids:

  • Provide a variety of art materials and let kids explore them.
  • Don't be afraid to get messy!
  • Encourage kids to be creative and expressive.
  • Don't judge their art.
  • Celebrate their creativity.

Process art can be a lot of fun for kids. It's a great way for them to express themselves and to learn about art. So get creative and let your kids explore the world of process art!


Supplies:

  • Purple Paint
  • Green Paint
  • A paper plate
  • A pencil eraser
  • A wine cork
  • White paper


Begin by stamping one purple dot, then on the next row, stamp two. Repeat thru 4 to 5 rows of grapes.



Repeat until your paper has plenty of purple bunches of grapes. 



Now grab your wine cork and dip into the green paint.


Fill the blank space in between grapes with green dots for leaves. When you are finished your paper should look like this.



So pretty! Let this dry and display it somewhere in the house. You could stick it on the fridge, but this turns out so cute you might want to frame it.


This is a perfect spring or summer craft for kids of all ages. It is easy, and needs no special supplies. I know you will have fun with this process art project.




Find more fun kids craft ideas here:

Pineapple process art

Cork and Button Apple Trees


Here are some process art for kids ideas:

  • Painting with natural materials: Gather some natural materials, such as leaves, flowers, twigs, and grass. Dip the materials in paint and then stamp them onto paper.
  • Collage: Collect a variety of materials, such as magazines, newspapers, fabric, and yarn. Cut out shapes from the materials and then glue them onto paper to create a collage.
  • Sculpting with playdough: Playdough is a great material for sculpting. Kids can use their imaginations to create anything they want, such as animals, people, or objects.
  • Performance art: Performance art is a type of art that is performed in front of an audience. Kids can create their own performance art pieces, such as dances, songs, or plays.
  • Installation art: Installation art is a type of art that is installed in a specific space. Kids can create their own installation art pieces, such as sculptures, paintings, or photographs.

These are just a few ideas for process art for kids. There are many other possibilities, so get creative and let your kids explore their imaginations!

Boredom Busters That Will Keep Your Kids Entertained for Hours

Boredom is a natural part of life, but it can be especially challenging for kids. When kids are bored, they may be more likely to engage in risky or destructive behaviors, such as getting into fights, using drugs or alcohol, or engaging in self-harm. Boredom can also lead to academic problems, such as poor grades and difficulty paying attention in class.

There are many benefits to offering boredom buster activities to kids. These activities can help kids:

  • Develop their creativity and problem-solving skills
  • Learn new things
  • Improve their social skills
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Stay physically active
  • Have fun!



 Jello Playdough by Momma Lew

This play dough uses jello to make a recipe for fun with a great scent to it too!


Rock Painting Party by Mom Junky

This is the ultimate free boredom buster. Grab some rocks and paint, and what do you know? You have an impromptu party on your hands!


Minecraft Block 3D Art by Down Redbud Drive

Get the kids off the screens, with a minecraft craft that is sure to hold their interest as long as a video game can!


Seed Hearts by Bunny’s Garden

Spread some love and seeds with this adorable craft idea. 


Toy Car Wash by Craftidly 

Got dirty cars? Then create a space to tidy them up. This is a squeaky clean idea for fun!


Homemade Sidewalk Chalk by Pop Shop America

You may never buy sidewalk chalk again after checking out this tutorial. Summer fun will be chalked up as a great time.


Scribble Dice by Barley and Birch

Scribble and roll up a fun time when the kids feel restless with this unique activity.


Lego Fidget Spinner by Creative Green Living

Fidget spinners meet legos with this really engaging activity for kids. They will spin with pride at the chance to make their own fidget toy!


Cupcake Liner Jellyfish by Kids Activities Blog

This craft is great for the days when you miss the beach; it brings a cute jellyfish swimming into craft time with minimal supplies.


Cactus Rock Painting by Messy Momma Crafts

This is such a cute idea for rock painting and can double as much loved home decor too!


Toothpick Cacti by Mod Podge Rocks

This craft is perfect for older kids, and will have them making a prickly cactus to show off!


Plastic Bag Friendship Bracelets by Craftidly

Give plastic bags new life with this bracelet tutorial! This is a great upcycle project for kids.


Paracord Bracelets by Needlepointers

These bracelets make great fashion, and in a pinch can be used for actual rope in an emergency situation.

Galaxy Slime by Sweet Silly Sara

This is slimy, goopy and it glows in the dark for an out of this world experience kids will love.




Here are some tips for offering boredom buster activities to kids:

  • Make a list of different activities that your kids might enjoy. This list could include things like playing games, reading books, doing arts and crafts, going for walks, or playing sports.
  • Talk to your kids about what they would like to do when they are bored. This will help you to tailor the activities to their interests.
  • Be prepared to offer some guidance and support when your kids are trying new activities. This will help them to have a positive experience.
  • Make sure that the activities are safe and appropriate for your kids' age and interests.
  • Be patient and understanding. It may take some time for your kids to get used to doing things on their own.

Boredom buster activities can be a great way to keep kids entertained and engaged. They can also help kids to develop important skills and learn new things. So next time your kids are bored, don't despair! There are plenty of fun and educational activities that you can do together.

Find more kids activities here:

Mud Ice Cream Cones

Fine Motor Counting

Fun Crafts You Can Explore With Kids At Home

 Are you spending your day with your kids at home? If so, then you might want to explore and plan some activities that you can enjoy together. There are lots of options worth considering here so let’s look at a few to ensure that you have a great time with your little ones, even if you are stuck in doors. 


Pexels Source CCO License


Clothing Design 


First, you should think about designing clothing with your kids. This is a great way to get them to think creatively and ensure that they have something that they can use or enjoy. There’s no limit on the type of clothing that you can create if you have the right materials and equipment. For instance, you can use holographic vinyl to add wonderful designs to any item of clothing from t-shirt to jackets. If you’re not sure how to begin with this possibility, then you’ll find some great guides online.

Wood Work


Next, you should explore woodwork options. This is something that you can explore if you have older children as it might be too tricky for younger kids. You might think that this is going to mean investing in a lot of equipment and items but it doesn’t have to. You just need to get some wood to work with. You could also think about exploring upcycling ideas. This will allow you to create items from old pieces of wooden furniture and accessories that you probably have lying around the home. Again, there are some great YouTube guides for woodworking with kids at home. 


Painting 


You might also want to think about painting with your kids. This could be an activity such as repainting a room or you might want to let them get creative with arts. If you are interested in letting your kids stretch their artistic muscle, then you should make sure that you get a blank piece of paper or a blank sheet from a home depot store. You can spread this out over the floor and just let them go a little wild. You might want to explore possibilities such as finger and hand painting as long as you don’t mind cleaning them up afterwards. 


Homemade Playdough 


Finally, kids love playdough. It allows them to get creative and design anything that they can imagine. Whether that’s pretending to make food in a restaurant or styling an egg. You can buy playdough, but why not think about creating your own instead? This in itself can be a fun activity to explore with your kids. All you need to create your own playdough is flour and salt as well as a little time. You can also use food colouring to create play dough in a wide variety of different colours. It’s a little messy but a fantastic option for time with the kids. 


We hope this helps you see that there are some great ways that you can spend time with your kids when you are stuck at home. Whether you want to get messy or just chill, we’re sure you’ll have a great time.


Finally, foster care kids love playdough. It allows them to get creative and design anything that they can imagine. Whether that’s pretending to make food in a restaurant or styling an egg. You can buy playdough, but why not think about creating your own instead? This in itself can be a fun activity to explore with your kids. All you need to create your own playdough is flour and salt as well as a little time. You can also use food colouring to create play dough in a wide variety of different colours. It’s a little messy but a fantastic option for time with the kids. 



Pine Cone Rescue Fine Motor Activity

This easy fine motor activity is perfect for keeping little hands busy without requiring any special materials! This Pine Cone Rescue is great for quarantine, or anytime you need to challenge little learners with simple supplies.


This is a super easy to set up activity, but let me be honest, this is HARD! It will challenge the kids and their fingers!  Last week my kids were restless and they were looking to argue with each other and I whisked them outside for a walk, hoping to get the ants out of their pants. 

It didn't work; they had a fight or three in the middle of the street. As the 6 year old picked up a pine cone to throw it at her older brother, inspiration hit me. Busy work was exactly what they needed!




Supplies:
Affiliate links are used, if you buy, I earn a small advertising fee.



Directions:
Place the small rubber bands around the pine cones.
Add more bands for older kids, and fewer for younger kids.
Encourage your kids to rescue the pine cone.
Be sure to dispose of the bands properly after removal because they can pose a hazard to small kids and pets.

Removing the bands is challenging! So, this is a great activity for kids of all ages. 


You can find more boredom busters for kids here
Mermaid Tail
Leaf Foxes
Easy iPad Stands

Promoting Healthier Eating Habits in Kids: A Guide for Moms

 



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Getting your kids to eat right can feel like an impossible mission, especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule. Between work, chores, and the never-ending to-do list, finding time to prepare healthy meals might seem overwhelming. It’s tempting to grab takeout or rely on packaged snacks, but these quick fixes often come with added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives.

You don’t want all that for your children or even yourself, right? Encouraging healthy eating habits doesn’t have to be difficult. With a few smart strategies, you can ensure your kids enjoy nutritious meals without adding stress to your day. 

Here are some practical tips that will enable you to help your kids develop a lifelong love for healthy food.

Make Healthy Eating Convenient

One of the easiest ways to promote healthier eating is by making nutritious choices more accessible. When kids are hungry, they reach for whatever is quick and easy. If processed snacks are the only option, that’s what they’ll eat. Keep fruits, vegetables, nuts, and yogurt readily available, and don’t keep unhealthy snacks at home.

Instead of hiding healthy foods in the fridge, make them visible and appealing. Pre-wash and cut fruits so they are ready to grab. Place small containers of hummus or nut butter next to carrot sticks or apple slices. When healthy snacks are just as easy to grab as chips or cookies, kids are more likely to choose them.

Reduce Eating Out by Making Their Favorite Foods at Home

Fast food is tempting, especially on busy days, but it’s not the best option for growing kids. Even meals that seem relatively healthy can be packed with unnecessary fats, sodium, and preservatives. The good news is that you don’t have to deny your kids their favorite foods—you just have to make them at home.

Take a grilled chicken sandwich, for example. Instead of relying on a drive-thru, you can prepare a healthier version in your own kitchen. All you need are boneless, skinless chicken breasts, Italian dressing, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and some basic seasonings. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, then grill it for about five to seven minutes on each side. Serve it on a whole wheat bun with lettuce and tomato for a meal that’s just as delicious but much healthier than the fast-food version.

When you make meals at home, you control the ingredients. You can use whole grains instead of refined ones, reduce unhealthy oils, and avoid excess salt and sugar. Not only does this make meals healthier, but it also helps kids develop a taste for fresh, home-cooked food instead of processed alternatives.

Make Mealtime a Family Event

Kids are more likely to eat nutritious food when they see their parents doing the same. Making mealtime a family event creates positive associations with food and encourages better eating habits. When everyone sits together at the table, it’s easier to focus on the meal rather than distractions like television or devices.

Sharing meals as a family isn’t just about food; it’s about connection. Talking about your day, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company make mealtime something to look forward to. It also allows you to introduce new foods in a comfortable setting. When kids see the rest of the family enjoying a variety of foods, they are more willing to try them.

Get Your Kids Involved in the Kitchen

Kids will enjoy eating what they helped cook. Letting them help in the kitchen gives them a sense of control over their food choices and makes them excited about eating. Even young children can participate by washing vegetables, stirring ingredients, or assembling simple dishes.

Take a trip to the grocery store and let your kids pick out a new fruit or vegetable to try. When they feel involved in the decision-making process, they are more likely to be open to trying new foods. 

Involving kids in meal preparation makes healthy eating feel fun and rewarding rather than something they are forced to do. Over time, this builds confidence in the kitchen and encourages lifelong healthy habits.

Sneak in Nutrition Without the Battle

If your child refuses to eat vegetables, you’re not alone. Many kids are picky eaters, but there are ways to add nutrition without them even noticing. One simple trick is blending vegetables into sauces, soups, and smoothies. Carrots, spinach, and zucchini can be mixed into pasta sauce, while bananas and berries easily mask the taste of greens in a smoothie.

Swapping less nutritious ingredients for healthier ones also makes a difference. Using whole wheat bread instead of white bread or Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can add more nutrients without changing the taste too much.

Rather than forcing kids to eat certain foods, find ways to incorporate them naturally into meals they already enjoy. 

Make Healthy Foods Fun and Appealing

Kids are naturally drawn to foods that look fun and colorful. If a plate is dull and uninviting, they might turn their noses up at it, even if it’s delicious. Making healthy meals visually appealing can encourage them to try new foods without resistance.

One simple way to do this is by using different shapes and colors. Cut fruits into fun shapes using cookie cutters or arrange vegetables in a rainbow pattern on their plate. A bowl of mixed berries or a salad with bright red tomatoes, orange carrots, and green cucumbers can be more enticing than a plain plate of food.

Presentation matters, especially with younger children, so a little creativity can go a long way in making healthy food more exciting.

Avoid Using Food as a Reward or Punishment

Many parents use food as a way to reward good behavior or withhold it as a form of discipline. While this might seem effective in the short term, it can create an unhealthy relationship with food. When kids associate sweets with being “good” or vegetables with being a punishment, they develop negative attitudes toward certain foods.

Instead of using food as a reward, try non-food incentives like extra playtime, a fun activity, or a sticker chart for younger kids. This shifts the focus away from emotional eating and encourages healthy habits without attaching moral value to food.


Helping kids develop healthy eating habits is not about eliminating treats or forcing them to eat foods they dislike. It’s about creating a balanced approach to nutrition that feels natural and enjoyable. Small changes can have a big impact, and over time, healthy eating will become a normal part of their lives. The key is consistency, patience, and a positive attitude toward food.


Feather Beading Fine Motor Activity

Feather beading is a fun fine motor activity that kids will love. It is perfect busy work and offers an outlet for creative expression with essential skills. Best of all, the supplies to create this activity are affordable and easy to find.



The kids have been out of school for a long time, at least 4 months already. I have been pulling out all of the stops to keep mine entertained and ready for when they are back in a classroom. This easy fine motor feather beading activity has been a big hit with both kids. They love to make patterns and have something to tinker with.  It is ideal for preschoolers and kindergartners.

Supplies:
Craft Feathers
Pony Beads



Directions:
Give your child a few feathers and a pile of beads.
Encourage your child to thread the beads onto the feathers.


To make things more of a challenge, encourage your child to make a pattern with the beads.

If you are offering this activity to younger kids, observe them carefully as beads can pose a choking hazard.
If you are giving this activity to older kids, challenge them to make more complex patterns, with a reminder to keep beads out of the ears, nose and mouth. No matter what age you complete this with, it is a great boredom buster with some educational perks.







                                             You can find all of my fine motor activities here.

Unicorn Fine Motor Rescue

Bring a bit of whimsy to your fine motor exercises with this easy to set up, but super challenging unicorn fine motor rescue activity. It is perfect for preschoolers, but don't be surprised if your older kids want to accept this challenge because it is a lot of fun!



We have been rescuing a lot of things from these little rubber bands lately. Pine Cones, Dinosaurs and more!
It is a lot of fun for Harper, and I am always an advocate for little kids to have access to fine motor activities. 
This one is much like the others we have done, but just a bit more magical. What little girl wouldn't love to rescue a unicorn from danger?



To set this activity up you will need:
A toy unicorn




Directions:
Trap the unicorn with bands by stretching them around the legs, tail, head, horn and body.
Offer the unicorn to your child and encourage your child to remove the bands, one by one.



Be sure to observe this activity, especially with younger kids, as these bands can be a choking risk.
Discard all bands when finished to keep kids and pets safe.

If you have older kids who want to work on this activity, add a lot more bands! For younger kids, adding 10 bands is more than enough of a challenge, but with older kids, you can really wind the bands around the unicorn, and go overboard! It will keep them entertained for a while.

Check out these other fine motor activities for more fun ideas.
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