"I'm Bored" Bowl

“I’m Bored” Bowl || Info for big kids and little kids below...

I got really overwhelmed the other day when I looked on a few sites for activities to plan for Max. There are just so may options. So, yesterday I sat down and made a list of things we can reasonably do. I chose activities that I have the supplies for or can easily substitute, that are simple to throw together, and that I think Max will be interested in. I typed the list in two columns (click here), printed, cut them into strips with one activity on each, and threw them in a bowl. Well, I threw them in a cute little pitcher to make myself happy. Some activities are more complex, some are as simple as “call a friend.” Some are my own ideas, some are borrowed.

At my house, for my 2 year old, this bowl is for me. When we need something to do, instead of stressing and scrambling, I’ll pull a strip of paper and we’ll go from there. For bigger kids, this is your answer when they come to you and say “I’m bored.” Simply point to the bowl. No need to speak. 

Since Max is little, I planned a loose schedule (check it out here) of activities. I want him to have lots of independent play time and I want to follow his lead as often as possible while still having some structure in our day. It’s an interesting balance and we’ll see what adjustments I need to make along the way. If you are struggling to make a schedule and your child attends preschool or daycare, email your child’s teachers to request a copy of their class schedule and go from there. Meal times are also a great framework to build around. 

This is our new normal. It is a little scary and incredibly uncertain, but I know for sure that your kids are going to be okay and you are going to be okay. Please reach out if you need help in any way.