I spent some of my day today in and out of the bank, and running some other errands. While doing so I kept wondering if there were ways to keep my kiddo entertained, without having to carry around a bunch of materials. It is so important to teach your kids to wait patiently - but here are 10 activities and tricks to use when kids have to wait. No materials are required!
1. Thumb Wars
I can't remember the last time I did this, but what a great way to occupy the kids! One, two, three, four - time to declare a thumb war! See who's the strongest, and time will fly.
2. Funny Bone Race
Have a race to the finish - see which kids can point to specific body parts the fastest. This is a great way to flex that competitive streak, while teaching them where there thigh and humerus bones are.
3. Play Simon Says
This one is super simple! Take turns being Simon. You can keep the kids active, quiet and engaged with this game. Issue instructions to your kids like "jump in the air" or "touch your toys", you should say "Simon Says" first. If you don't say that first, and they still obey... they're out!
4. I Spy
I spy, with my little eye... something that that will occupy the kids! My little guy is three, and this game works absolute wonders. We can play it in the car, in the doctor's office, while on our walks and in so many more places. It keeps him focused and alert, and helps him wait easier.
5. ABC Hunt
Call out a letter and see how many things your child can identify that start with that particular letter. This works with colours, shapes, numbers, etc. as well. Make it fun, and let them have a turn or two as well.
6. Nursery Rhymes
If your kiddo is young enough, nursery rhymes can be a lot of fun. I can't tell you how many times we have recited Twinkle Twinkle Little Star or Itsy Bitsy Spider while waiting for an appointment. It is a great way to keep a positive energy while having fun and passing time.
7. Create A Story
This is a fun one to see what your child can imagine. Start telling a story, and then pass the reins to your kiddo. So you start with, "Once upon a time, there was a princess named..." and then let your child do the next few sentences. Then take turns until the story is too incredible to keep going.
8. How Many?
Say a shape, number, letter, colour, etc. and have your child count how many relative objects they can find in the room. This is how I got my son to be so familiar with colours and shapes. Next we will work on letters and numbers - yay!
9. Guess a Hand
If you have a small object in your purse like an eraser or bouncy ball, you can mix it between your two hands and hide it behind your back. Have your kiddo try to guess which hand contains the item, and then let them have a turn too.
10. Think of a Number
I'm thinking of a number between 1 and 10 - which is it? Your kids will take turns guessing until someone gets it correct. Whoever guesses the number, gets to have the next turn. This is a simple game and will help learn counting and numbers as well.
How do you get your kids to wait patiently?
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