Many people do not understand the mental and emotional toll this takes on a mom or dad. The house is a mess and there’s dishes in the sink, repetitive tasks are hard to carry out if there has not been a change in a while. We should not look around at 10 a.m. and say this is the “Same stuff, different day.” I hate that saying so much. That is when you realize that you are the one in control of the day and how it goes. You decide what’s for breaky, lunch and dinner, you pick out the shows the kids watch and you decide if you’re going to go somewhere or not. My mother reminded me of this yesterday, when I said those fateful words “Same stuff, different day.” Sometimes, we need to be reminded that we are the ones in charge of the day and the things we do and why not change it up.
Here are some awesome ways to change it up during the day:
- Movie time
Movie time is always a fun way to change it up. Buy a fun snack that the kids don’t have often and put on a movie that you have not watched before. Set up blankets and pillows on the floor, grab the snacks and snuggle with the kids while you enjoy a different movie.
- Fishing
Yesterday, my “change it up” was fishing. I got the kids in the car, went to the bait shop, and bought a fishing license. Then we drove all over the place looking for a spot to catch fish from the shore. Sure, it was a lot of work for me, to lug 4 kids around and fish, but the smiles were worth the miles that I drove.
- Paint Rocks
I love painting rocks and the kids do too. This can get messy, but it works well if you do it outside. This activity will definitely help you change it up.
- Scavenger hunt
Kids love scavenger hunts. I create my own little lists for the kids, and they love it so much. You can do anything with these things. I usually have the kids find things by color or plant. Try to have something to win. There’s a FREE download for this at the end of the article. (PSSST, push the pink button).
- Take Fun Pictures
This is a really fun thing to do with your kids. Have them put on something fancy or last year’s Halloween costume and do a photo shoot. I did this with my daughter in a snow-white costume and it was so fun for her and I.
Overview
Try to make each day for your kids count. I know this is hard, especially when you feel tapped out for the day, but that is when it is most important to change it up. Remember how short your childhood was and try to lengthen your children’s childhoods. Give them the time that you want back and the time you wish you had.
Be a Cupcake not a Monster.
More to Read:
- How to Overcome Parental Sensory Overload with Three Steps
- 10 Tips and Tricks for New Parents
- Fun 15 Kid Approved Rainy Day Activities
Here’s and Easy Freeze Dance too.
