1. Turn off the gadgets
Even if it’s just a day without their mobile phones or their tablet, this is vital to keep your little ones productive. It’s too easy for a child to say “I’m bored” and turn to their tech devices, going on to spend hours in front of a bright screen, doing nothing particularly exciting or productive. To really promote productivity, designate a ‘no tech time’ where they have to make their own fun and keep themselves occupied – it’s guaranteed to work.
2. Get some fresh air
Allowing them a well-earned lie-in and time to relax is important ahead of the new term, but fresh air is vital to dust off the cobwebs and get them energised. The last thing you want is for your child to turn around at the end of the midterm and say that they spent it lazing around inside the house; get them outside in the fresh air – whether it’s playing with their friends, kicking a ball around with dad or walking the dog – and keep their energy levels up.
3. Do a craft project
One of the best ways to keep your child productive in a way that is fun and enjoyable for all involved is with a craft project. Whether you assign them their own little project to get their creative juices going, or you undertake a family assignment, this will ensure that they are learning and maintaining their sharpness while having buckets of fun.
4. Read
While there may be a temptation to let them go wild on their tablets and games consoles, be sure to break up their day with different activities. Allotting reading time will ensure that they get a break from screentime and are kept in learning mode. Doing a little reading every day will keep them fresh during the break, and ready to get back into a learning environment when they return to school.
5. Clear your own schedule
You can’t oversee your child’s day if you are not present yourself. Try to limit your own work communication while at home so that you can give your child your time and attention. It’s all too easy for them to reach for their mobile phone when unsupervised, but if you are there with them, you can easily come up with some fun ideas and boredom solutions when you put your heads together.
