Keep The Children Entertained

I don't know about you but after Spring Break I begin to dream of Summer!

A typical summer for me is full of evenings at the pool, gatherings with family/friends, & anxiety about my children's screen time.

As a former teacher I know the importance of limiting screen time for my children. However, COVID (sorry if this this is a trigger word for you) unfortunately created even more of this in our daily routines. Virtual learning, followed by free time on a screen while mom was on Zoom or answering emails was a recipe for too much screen time. Insert withdrawal when things started going back to normal. I apparently was speaking a foreign language to my children when I suggested to play outside or do anything that didn't involve a screen.

I'm not going to pretend that my house is screen-free or that we don't go over our daily screen allowance. My children have access to iPads, Smart TV's, iPhones, etc. On rainy days you will find me snuggled under a blanket binging Bravo while my children are watching YouTube or playing Roblox. Eventually my husband will force us to disconnect and get out of the house. (And I love him for this)!

Then comes summer. The days are longer and the bedtimes are later. Now is the time to get creative as a mom.

The above items are my top summer must haves from Amazon. They can be used in your basement, backyard, or at the beach. They all promise hours upon hours of screen-free entertainment for your children. (Haha)! In all seriousness we use all of these during the summer and they are truly fun!!

The Sunlite Sports Waterproof ball is great for the pool, beach, or lake. Link here:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WG5FI0E/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_GMZ144EQ8MQ76WA45PYZ?linkCode=ml1&ta

UNO Splash Waterproof cards. (Need I say more)? Great for rain delays or rest breaks at the pool. Also, easy to wipe down after sticky popsicle fingers. Link:

https://amzn.to/40RsO0V

I've included two corn-hole/beanbag toss games. Each come with travel cases but one is collapsible and lightweight. Linked here:

https://amzn.to/43ARWee

https://amzn.to/3MBsVtd

Next up Kan Jam and Slammo (dad approved fun)! We prefer the frisbee Kan Jam so I've linked that & the Slammo here! https://amzn.to/411jtDF

https://amzn.to/3KRbGmn

Moody Catchers Emoji Velcro Mits. Throw, catch, & smile. Need I say more? Linked here:

https://amzn.to/41oCWyd

Waboba Waterproof Mits & Ball. Perfect for the baseball or softball players in your lives. Waterproof, easy to pack, interchangeable for lefties/righties. Link: https://amzn.to/41oDjc5

Last but not least my favorite "board games." Weird But True National Geographic Game. Learn fun facts while competing against your friends/family. Linked here:

https://amzn.to/3ZZmLpQ

I Got This! A great game for all ages that includes fun challenges that adults and kids will love while giggling away. Link here:

https://amzn.to/3zQEViQ

I hope one or more of these bring your family some screen-free fun this spring or summer!