Parenting Question
of the Week
Question 15: Indoor Activities
Question: My kids love to play outside but with it getting darker earlier now I want to find ways of keeping them busy inside – without depending on the TV to keep them occupied. My kids are really into sports but I also want them to try some new activities. Do you have any suggestions of activities that will challenge them and keep them interested inside?
Answer: With shorter days now many parents will be thinking about indoor activities for their children. Engaging children in interesting age appropriate activities will help them to develop skills. Music, drama and art are wonderful indoor activities that can help your children learn to express themselves and explore their creative sides. If your children have already shown interest or abilities in an area of art or music now is a great time to help them pursue their interest further. It is also the perfect time to introduce the arts to children that may not have had a chance to experience them yet.
Dr. Matthew Sanders, creator of Triple P - Positive Parenting Program, suggests the following ways of encouraging your child to be creative. First take note of activities that your child may already be interested in. Talk to their teachers or other caregivers to see if they have shown a preference for anything in the arts. Find out if there are places that offer affordable lessons or where you may be able to borrow equipment, such as musical instruments or art supplies.
Encourage your child to try new activities. This may be easier for your child if you include it in your family activities. For example, you can encourage drama by playing games such as charades or encouraging dress up games. Sing and dance with your children to help them develop rhythm. Point out natural beauty to your children on walks or in pictures. For example, talk about the color and shapes of different flowers and plants. You may also want to take them to museums, galleries, plays, concerts etc. Share your reactions with each other.
If you are able to enroll your child in music, art or drama lessons, set aside specific time for them to practice at home. Take an interest in what they are doing and praise them for their efforts. Provide positive and encouraging comments and avoid critical remarks. Take time to talk to your children about their artwork and put it on display in your home. Ask them to show you the new song or dance they have learned or made up. Share some of your favorite songs and dance moves. Make it fun for all of you.
Be aware that trying a new activity can be difficult for some children. Sometimes children who do not feel confident will want to quit an activity. Unless it is too distressing for your child, you may want to encourage them to continue with one activity for a period of time (for example, one school term). They will become more confident with time and may begin to really enjoy themselves. If they still want to change after that period of time you may want to let them choose something new to try.
Time inside can be fun for your whole family and is an opportunity for your children to learn to express and enjoy themselves in new and creative ways.
About the authors:
Cheri Shapiro, PhD,
is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology and the
Project Director for Building Connections, a federal grant program through
the University of South Carolina that provides Triple P - Positive Parenting
Program training and parenting information to select South Carolina counties.
Alexandra Seng, MA, is trained in Triple P.
Find local providers here.
