Summer’s here and you need a break already! Here are some independent play ideas that have worked well in my family. When kids start using their imaginations, you can give yours a rest. Check out the websites I’ve included for these classic ideas and more!

Busy Bucket

In my house, tubs of toys and craft materials are usually for rainy days. Why not make a summer busy bucket full of fun activities like paper and paints, puzzles, models, sewing supplies, clay and a host of age appropriate craft materials? Keep it packed for a couple of weeks to build anticipation. Take it out when you need a relaxing afternoon, or some grown up time for a special dinner.
The folks at Learn With Play at Home have ideas for making a “Quiet Box” for preschoolers.

Invite a Friend

When my daughter was little and had a friend over, I could usually manage to get a few things done. Set the tone of the play date with your child ahead of time. Maybe it will be a teddy bear tea party, or an afternoon movie in the den with popcorn. You ought to be able to get at least an hour to relax or catch up on chores.
See About.com’s article, 9 Things for Kids to do While You Work, by Laureen Miles Brunelli, for info on play dates and more, at Work at Home Moms.

Fun with Shapes and Sizes

Gather your rulers, yardsticks and tape measures and make a list of things around the house for children to measure. With enough kids, you can have teams and even prizes. Kids will keep their math skills sharp and have fun while you relax with some iced tea and a magazine. Read Education.com’s article, Measurement Activities for Kids, for ideas on holding a measurement scavenger hunt, and other entertaining challenges.

Water Play

You don’t need a pool for younger kids to enjoy getting wet on a hot summer day. The Little Tikes Fish ‘N Splash Water Table sells for about $45.00, and is great fun for children 2 and up. Read stories like One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss, and Curous George Goes Fishing by Margaret Rey, to get the kids’ imaginations going before they head out to fish. Place the water table in the shade to keep the children and the water cool. This set comes with one fishing rod, five floating creatures, a water cup and fishing net. Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister is another good story, as it’s about sharing! There’s a fun website called Happy Hooligans: Crafts and Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers. Read their article, 25 Water Play Activities for Kids in the Backyard, You’ll love the “Dino Dig” and “Polly Pocket Pool Party!”

Build a Village

Get some large boxes. Appliance boxes are best, but your local grocery or wine and spirits shop can supply you with a variety of sizes and shapes. Older children can use scissors, but for younger, simply stacking and arranging boxes will do. Have the kids decorate their houses with crayons, markers, paint, construction paper and glue for hours of fun. With enough space in the family room, maybe the neighborhood can stay up for play another day.
The resourceful people at Create With Your Hands have some good ideas for baby play and family fun in their article, Creativity With Cardboard Boxes – House

Use your imagination, help your children use theirs, and have a wonderful summer!

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