How to Keep Children Happy During School Vacation

School vacation can be a stressful time for both parents and children. If the children are kept busy with various activities during school break it will keep boredom at bay. Thankfully, there are inexpensive ways to keep children entertained and happy. What most children crave is the undivided time and attention of their parents. Give them that memorable gift during the upcoming holidays.

With the children home there is extra clean up. This is no reason for your house to be in constant disarray. The children can each help with a few smaller daily household jobs. They can do simple tasks like emptying the trash, filling and emptying the dishwasher, picking up dirty laundry, straighten up their rooms and lots more. Of course, the jobs a child is capable of performing will depend on their age. If everyone works together you can have the house spic 'n span in short order.

The time your children go to bed is one area where you should remain consistent during vacation. Try to stick as close to their normal bedtime routine as possible. Children still need a full night of sleep. Lack of sleep makes children (and adults) cranky.

Children are always hungry between meals. Eating too many sugary snacks make children hyper. Purchase healthy snacks for your children to eat. Have plenty of fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, grapes, kiwis and oranges on hand. Yogurt and low-fat cheese are somemore nutritious food choices. Mix raisins and peanuts for another delicious snack. Rice cakes, granola or cereal bars would also be healthy options. Some of these ideas may not work if your child has food allergies.

Take your children to visit the library. Spend some time browsing and allow each child select a few books to read. If you have preschoolers read the books they chose to them. Just remember to take good care of the books and return them by the due date.

Rent a couple movies from the movie store. Your family can enjoy several hours of entertainment in the comfort of your own home. Order a pizza or have your children help you make one to eat while you watch the movies. If you can financially afford a trip to the theater take the children on an outing. Keep in mind that afternoon showings are usually cheaper than in the evening.

Check out the table games section in the store. Purchase one that your family would enjoy playing. Putting together a puzzle would be another fun family activity. Have your older children help you plan a treasure hunt or a scavenger hunt for the younger children. Playing games can entertain your children for hours.

Do some craft activities with your children. They can make homemade thank you cards for the gifts they received. If you have smaller children help them do some coloring, chalk drawing or finger painting.

Depending where you live outdoor activities will vary. In warmer climates take the children on a nature hike, bike riding, roller blade and/or picnic in the park. In cold climates go sledding, skating, build a snowman or snow fort.

Clean out your clothes closets. Get rid of clothes that no longer fit or are out of style. Let the children play dress up with the clothes you tossed. Have a camera handy because dress up can be lots of fun.

Have an enjoyable vacation with your children!