Nifty vs. Thrifty

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Great Activities Without Spending a Dime!

Want to have some fun with your kids without spending a dime? Look around you and use what you have in your own living room! We sometimes think that kids need expensive toys and fancy items but the truth is, they love the simple things!

I used to work with children with autism and provided many sensory exercises. While working with the children with special needs, I found thier brothers, sisters, and classmates wanting to do the activities as well. I began doing these activities with other kids and found they liked it just as much!

Children love pressure and squeezing. They find it hysterical if you tell them you're going to sit on them and flatten them into a pancake (I like to pretend to put syrup on top and then eat them)

Next, children love the sandwich game. Take some pillows from your couch or sofa and put your child into a 'sandwich'. Ask your child what they want on their sandwich, "Would you like me to add cheese or tomatoes? " Put the cushions or pillows on top of your child and push down with a little pressure. Your child will love it!

Finally, exercise balls are great for bouncing and rolling. Use your imagination for different ideas such as having the child sit on the ball and bounce them lightly or put them on top of the ball (on their belly) and roll forward and back. Another option? Roll or bounce the ball across the room to each other.

Don't have anything to play with in your living room? Challenge older children to a push up contest or get the little ones to start marching! Children love to march and will enjoy following you around and stomping their feet!

Children have so much energy and also have many sensory needs. They often act out as a result of either being tired, bored, or needing some sensory input. Try some of these activities and you will definetly have some quality time and create a positive experience with your kids. The best part? All you need is your imagination and some willingness to try new things! Enjoy!

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