After School Entertainment

[EnoughIsEnough89Participant]

Any advice or ideas welcome here…

 

I’m a single mum to a four year old boy. After school, I find we’re falling into a pattern of getting home, switching the iPad on and vegging out for the rest of the afternoon/evening. I was just wondering if anyone had any low cost alternatives – it’s just me and him, he does want to play things like cars with me but I’m terrible at it!!

Going to the park is a nice idea when the weather is kind, but as we know, English weather isn’t always favourable!

**NB I am NOT saying sitting on the iPad is a bad thing – please no one take offence! I’m simply looking for other ideas for variation!**

[KathymumofoneParticipant]

We used to “build our tea” – ie a pre-made pizza base and the toppings.

Or make and decorate cup cakes. Or make birthday cards for family members.

He’s old enough for UNO or happy families.

Or my son would write my shopping list for me when he was a bit older and add in foods he liked, or we’d have a movie session – popcorn and a film.

This time of year, make Xmas decorations for the tree, or stencil snowflakes onto his bedroom wall (paint them out in January).

lots of craft things.

[SOLOMUMMYParticipant]

Our weeks in winter tend to be:

• Arts and crafts
• Board games
• Movie night on Fridays
• Any local Christmas event -light switch ons etc
• Odd play date every few weeks

That’s generally it for winter as it’s so bleak and more difficult with work etc, unlike in summer when I can work in garden with little be playing games and activities I’ve setup.

 

[EnoughIsEnough89Participant]

Those are great suggestions, thanks for the replies. I’m currently renovating my house, so trying to work in a limited space presents a few challenges!

[AJParticipant]

Hiya,

It’s hard isn’t it, finding things to do after school and motivating yourself when it’s dark outside!

The only thing I was going to add was that we sometimes go to our local library after school, pick a couple of books to read there and maybe one to borrow to read together at home.

I’ve also found that they have free activities during the holidays which have been great.

[Mamabear1Participant]

if space in the house is limited maybe a month pass at your local play barn.

Crafts is another good one.

Messy play.

Lego.

Puzzles.

Hope that helps.

[Author]

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