April Fools Day Games for Kids

With April Fools Day fast approaching, finding a way for your kids to celebrate without being destructive is crucial for some families. The realization that you have been super glued to your own toilet seat is not a place most of us want to be and for some of us we need to guide our child's energy to positive non-destructive activities.

Here is a small list of ideas to keep your child occupied on April Fools Day without ignoring the holiday all together especially if they already know what the holiday is about.

1) If you are a dual parent household you can supervise pranks on each other through your kids. These can be safe and harmless which will teach your child that destruction and pain are not necessary when pulling a prank. A few examples would be the infamous Glue a quarter to the sidewalk gag. Super Glue a quarter to your driveway or sidewalk and have you and your child watch as the other parent tries to grab it. Another example would be to have your child use gummy worms to put in an apple. Cut a few holes in an apple and stuff the gummy worms inside. Offer an apple to the other parent and let the laughter begin.

2) Playing holiday related games could also be a great way to use your child energy for good. There are many parenting sites on the web that will give you some resources for games relating to any holiday. One of my favorites is http://www.surfnetkids.com/games/aprilfools-pp.htm. They have crossword puzzles and games that can be printed out and done by your children for April Fools.

3) Cook something. Use an April Fools Day Theme to create a dish or two with your children. Any recipe with surprise in the title could work. One of my favorites would be a mozzarella stuffed meatball. Make you standard recipe meatballs but have your children put a piece of mozzarella in the middle before cooking. Food Coloring is another great way to create an April Fools related dish. Making green mash potatoes can be a trill for you children and an easy way to vent their energy.

April Fools day doesn't have to be lived in fear. Harness your child's energy ahead of time and avoid the inevitable prank you will be handed. These can also be a great opportunity to bond with your children on a holiday usually forgotten. Happy April Fools!