TV alternatives

I visited a friend the other day and she was so inspirational with the ways she gets around not resorting to 'the box' (she does use it sometimes but not much) I've been using the TV more than i like lately and so we brainstormed some alternatives. I know DS1 in particular likes open-ended activities where he can use his imagination and so the family room has been a 'free for all' scattered with lots of different things. But my friend has different activity stations/options which gives me something more defined to give/show him to stop being bored... b/c this is what has been happening and then the fights are on etc... and that's when i can't stand it and resort to the TV. So here's our list - can you add to it? The more ideas the better:

I know a lot of this is common sense but i think if I make an effort to have these activities available rather than leave things ad hoc then i might find less need to switch the tv on. here's hoping!!

can anyone think of anything else? I'd love to hear!!!

__________________
poppyg

Me - 37
DH - 39

Last edited by poppyg : 15-06-2007 at 08:06 PM.

  #2      

ideas, links, resources...

I thought I'd already replied to this, but can't see the reply?

Anyway, I Googled "TV free activities for kids" cause I used to have a book with a similar name, and this is what I came up with.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/art..._for_kids.html not as hardcore as this next one, but got some great, manageable ideas!

http://www.tvturnoff.org/

http://cgi.ebay.com/TV-FREE-ACTIVITI...QQcmdZViewItem my favourite way to get hold of a resource!

http://www.mindfultoys.com/501book.html but I think this one is designed for older kids, similar cover, but not the same as the one I have (in a box somewhere…)

http://familyfun.go.com/utilities/gl...-video-player/ ok, so it’s not a book, but here’s some more ideas. Increase mum’s screentime, but give you some memorymaking potential…

OK, so this is just the tip of the iceberg when you Google “tv free activities for kids” Hope something works for you! Enjoy your time with your cherubs!

__________________
Cookiemother2
"Bubble" born 2 July 2007.

  #3      

Board ( or should that be BORED?) Games

I have found some great board game bargains in op shops and at cash converters. We love board games as a family, and even half dead ones can offer a lot of fun. My kids had an old copy of "guess who" and have taken to making their own faces to go in the slots.

Obviously now the kids are older we are learning more complicated card and board games. But preschoolers should be able to play snakes and ladders and snap!

__________________
:::iona:::

  #4      

going well

thanks for those xtra idea . I've been really happy with the self serve shelf i've set up in the kitchen - the kids love it!!! And yes, Tv time has been cut down heaps, which is great

__________________
poppyg

Me - 37
DH - 39