The state of Texas is going through a rough time right now with the epicenter of the H1N1 flu at its back door and all the schools and day care centers closed. Not only is the flu a constant worry but everyone is suffering from the dreaded cabin fever.Having to stay home with your own children and spouse who has been told to stay home or is laid off from his job is tantamount to high treason.
What do you do all day with children who are used to a steady stream of scheduled learning and physical activity? It is a good chance to spend quality time with your children and reinforce that bond that becomes weakened when everyone is flying in different directions all day long. Here are some ideas:
Start a vegetable and fruit garden in the backyard showing children that to tend a garden is hard work but very rewarding and tasty
Make a tree fort or a fort in the backyard for sleep-overs with one parent
Make one room in the house into a games and T.V. room
Clean out all closets and drawers of old or worn out clothing
Donate to charity with old but disinfected toys and clothing, household goods
Teach your children how to bake bread and make freezer jam
Make a tire swing from a branch on the tree
Learn to roller blade or skate board
Play board games such as Scrabble or Parcheesi
Seed the yard and water the lawn, trim the grass and plant some flowers
Wash the windows and mend the screens
Change the furniture around in the living room or bedrooms
Children can switch bedrooms
There are lots of things to do when you are at home with your children. It takes lots of imagination and enthusiasm.