Small children are full of energy, and though it’s fun, it’s also exhausting. Sometimes you want to relax while engaging with your kids. If you’re interested, check out these five calming activities you can do with your kids.
Reading Corner
Choosing a book and reading with your child is relaxing and educational. Even if your child can’t read yet, you can introduce them to words, phrases, and books in general. Set time aside to read aloud to your kid.
If your child can read, you can block out 20 minutes of the day for “reading corner” time, as you both silently read different books at the same time. After 20 minutes, you all can come back and discuss the book your child read.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is an ultra-calming activity that allows kids to relax while smelling some lovely scents. Place a few drops of essential oil in a diffuser and sit with your child as you two work on deep breathing exercises or yoga. If you’re new to aromatherapy and essential oils, you can follow these tips for buying and using essential oils.
Sensory Station
For young kids, sensory stations are a great way to play with different things while relaxing. The best part is that you can create the stations and play with your kids! For instance, you can fill a bin with shredded paper, uncooked rice, different types of fabric, or play dough to give your kid something to touch. As they explore different textures, you can play right beside them.
Drawing or Painting
Drawing and painting are two “never-fail” activities that kids of all ages can do! Grab some paper, crayons, paint, or colored pencils and work on a masterpiece. To elevate the experience, you can give your kid challenges, such as “draw our house” or “paint a picture of the sky,” to help them become more observant. Art is also a great form of self care and helps them to express their thoughts and feelings more clearly.
Walking
Walking is a fantastic exercise and a calming activity. You and your child can take a walk around the neighborhood or stroll through a park and enjoy the outdoors. You can even play a game of “I spy” to enhance the experience. For instance, you can say, “I spy something tall and green,” and your kid will say, “A tree!”
Kids are little energy balls that seem like they’re always on “go-mode.” However, there are activities you can do that calm yet engage your children! Hopefully, these five calming activities you can do with your kids gave you great ideas.
Author Bio
Christina Duron is a writer living in the Chicagoland area. Her passion for writing and mental health help create thought provoking and engaging pieces and hopes to use them to empower mothers and women to embrace the beauty of motherhood.
