We know exactly what thoughts ran through your mind when you were told school was closed for the foreseeable future. Of course, there was the relief that your children were going to be safe and sound at home, but then came the stark realisation of the fact that your children were going to be safe and sound at home for an extra 7 hours a day.
Cue visions of an utterly chaotic, lawless world where little children have finally had their wishes granted of no school. However, before fear sets in and Bugsy Malone becomes a documentary rather than a fictional film, we're here with some top survival tips on keeping your children entertained!
Ideas for Games
Birthday for Bear
You didn't know your children's teddies had birthdays? Neither did we, but they do now...
Why not plan a birthday party for their favourite teddy?! Make it a few days away so you can spend an hour each day preparing for it. Think invitations for other teddies, music playlists, party games and cake decorating! Then for the big day, let them enjoy all their hard work!
Fashion Show
There is a world full of opportunity within your children's wardrobes to keep them entertained for a good few hours.
Organise a fashion show with themed catwalks. From tea party attire to the great outdoorsy look. Get the music on and have some fun! Don't forget to take pictures! This is one for the memory book...
Fun Facts of the World
Did you know that the average French person eats 500 snails a year? Australia is drier than any other populated continent on earth? There are more chickens in England than people?
Task your children to find out the funnest facts they can about a country of your choice! Yes, it's fine to use lesser-known ones to make the task last longer!
Camping Trip in the Garden
The weather is pretty good at the moment, so guess what?! We're going camping in the garden! Get the tent and sleeping bags out, don't forget your drinks and snacks! Enjoy making a little campfire, share some spooky stories and sleep under the stars!
No back garden? No worries, make way in your living room for a tent. Still just as fun and not too far away from the kettle!
Make a Domino Race Course
Ever wondered where those people get the time from to make elaborate domino races? Well, now's your chance.
Task your children with making a course through the house, using pots, pans and baskets to switch up the pace. When they're ready, get the camera out and watch a domino effect with your very own eyes.
Film a Vlog for Nan & Grandad
It's not nice to be separated from our loved ones, but with the help of technology, we can try to include them in as much as possible.
Why not get your children to take some videos throughout the day, combine them together on an app and send it to their nearest and dearest as a suprise!
Ideas for Educating
The Zoo in Your Home
EDINBURGH ZOO
Visit their website and choose to watch a live stream of Koalas, Pandas, Penguins and Tigers!
DUBLIN ZOO
Elephants, penguins and giraffes are all on offer on Dublin's Zoo live steam!
3D ANIMALS IN YOUR HOME
Android users can see a 3D animal in their home, simply by 'googling' the animal and clicking on "View in 3D"
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Keeping Up with the Curriculum
BBC Teach - Interactive Lessons
Explore "live lessons" a fun and interactive way you can teach your children the subjects they'd be learning in school. From Blue Planet to Shakespeare, History and Digital, there is loads you can cover.
The Body Coach - Live P.E. with Joe
It's essential to keep fit when you're stuck inside, one hour a day to walk may not be enough for your children. If not, the amazing Joe Wicks is doing live P.E videos every weekday morning at 9am.
