On Boxing Day the entire province of Ontario was locked down yet again. Most small businesses will be closed. No more movies at the theatre and no large gatherings. Not all is lost, though. We still have things to do. Especially if you live in the country! Here is a list of 10 things you can do through this lockdown, with kids.
Go exploring! That big forest really isn’t that scary once you get inside of it. If you’re lucky you already have trails to walk down. It is a little more difficult in the winter. Try taking a snowmobile down the trails first to pack the snow down. If your lucky you will find some treasures, old glass bottles or maybe an old coin. We once found a really old pocket watch! While you’re exploring, gather some crafting supplies. Twigs, pine cones, etc. Kids love making crafts.
Target Practice! My son really likes to take his air rifle out and shoot tin cans. Its a lot of fun. During the winter your hands will get cold so be sure to bring some nice thin gloves. Or, do what we do. Set up a tent
Build a snow hill! If you have a snow blower, plow or even a shovel you can do this. Pile snow as tall as you like and the kids will have fun for hours. It doesn’t take to long with a snow blower and you can make it really big. You can also get creative and make snow slides. Think bobsled. The sky’s the limit. I don’t know one kid that doesn’t like to be king of the mountain!
Baking! Who doesn’t like fresh pumpkin bread? My kids love baking, even the little ones like to mix the dough and decorate the cookies. And after its all done, you get a nice treat!
Scavenger hunt! This one takes some planning and time, but its really fun. Make 10 or more “clues” and hide them around your yard. Each one leading to the next “clue”. Even my teenager liked this. Have a treasure chest at the end or at each clue. You decide.
Skating and sliding! Everyone knows about these, but when was the last time you went to the big hills? I know we don’t get out enough. Now is the perfect time!
Make Pizza! This is my favorite one. You can get a pizza kit or make the dough from scratch. It doesn’t really matter. The kids will love it. Just a warning, grate up more cheese than you need. Lots will disappear to fast little fingers. That goes for pepperoni too.
Board Games! Most kids these days seem to be on video games or cell phones. Always looking at a screen. Dust off the Monopoly or ants in the pants
Astronomy! If you have a telescope or a pair of binoculars you’re set. My older kids love looking at the sky. I’d suggest getting a couple books
Photo albums! Dig out all the old photo albums you have and start looking. The kids will laugh forever, at your old clothes and the hair you use to have. If you have the time, you can also scan some into your computer and share them with family and friends online!
Well, there you have it. 10 things you can do with kids during the lockdown. It is a tough time right now, for everyone. But if you have the yard for this, you and your family can have a lot of fun! Stay safe and wash your hands.
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