Lockdown and kids

Aug 25, 2021

So here we all are back at Level 4 and encouraged to stay home and stay safe. Which is all very well if you’re an adult without any little dependents running around the house.

What about those of us who are housebound with kids? Sure, we’ve done this before, and we know how to do it again, but we still need a plan, and some support.

Here are some tips to try and help you through:

Reframe

This is still not normal for anyone. It’s okay to be finding it difficult. Accepting that it IS challenging may help you have compassion for yourself and others when things don’t go as planned. Rather than being “stuck at home” we have the opportunity to spend some quality time with our kids.

Take the time to explain

Try to explain what is currently going on both with the pandemic and the lockdown. Kids thrive on routine and will probably be quite confused as to why they can’t go to day-care or school, play team sports, or see their friends. Taking the time to explain also helps with their knowledge on staying safe (and following the rules!).

Create a routine

As much as possible keep to your normal schedule. Start your day off as you usually would – breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth, head to school or start your day’s activities. A timetable for each day, placed where the whole family can see it, can help keep you on track. Also – bored kids are hungry kids, so try to have set meal and snack times and activities planned in between.

Activities

These can vary depending on what age kids you’ve got in the house with you! For preschool age kids, some basic learning activities or puzzles will keep their minds busy. For older kids, schoolwork plus other life skill learning opportunities like helping with household jobs that you could use a hand with.

Get some fresh air

If you can, get outside. Go for a walk or have a picnic lunch in the garden. Maybe set up a basic obstacle course or take part in some outdoor chalk drawing. Outside activities help you limit screen time as best you can, which is essential too much screen time can cause trouble sleeping at night.

Quiet time

Try to encourage kids who are past napping age to have some “chill time” in their room in the afternoon to reset. Once again, time away from a screen should be encouraged. Activities like reading a book, doing a puzzle, or even talking to friends on the phone are good suggestions.

RoomMate Cabins

Don’t be too hard on yourself as a parent – we will get through this! ????

Recent events have seen a rise in the work-from-home parent, as well as reinforcing the importance of the stay-at-home parent.

While there are many pros to having children at home it can be difficult to stop your home from being overrun with books, toys, and food in the juggle between home and childcare facility and playground.

Check out our recent blog for Tips for parents with children at home to learn how a RoomMate Cabin can help your situation.

Give us a call on 0800 111 344 or contact your nearest RoomMate Cabins supplier today.