|
|
|
This article is for all the moms out there who have heard that cry a million times. Seems that in an era of computers and video games, we should never hear that cry again. However, like most parents I know, I put a limit on how much time my kids spend on the couch watching TV, playing video games, and sitting in front of a computer screen. After all, they need to use their imaginations now and then too. This feat proves to be easier said then done. I told my kids yesterday, to make a fort out of sheets and they thought I was insane! But, I have found some creative ways to get around these problems!
First of all, to make my kids use their imaginations, I have a crate stored in the office that contains everything from empty paper towel rolls to mismatched socks. At first, my kids would strangely look at me, but this crate contains hours and hours of entertainment. Throw in a little glue and some safety scissors and they have a wonderful craft box. My living room magically transforms to faraway lands and puppet shows as they discover a world beyond the television.
One of my favourite things to do with my kids is to read, but reading the same books repeatedly can be a bit of a bore. Therefore, we take turns making up endings. This means we do not always know how it ends but we do know one thing, it will have interesting endings. Now that my older kids can read, I also let them read to me. This lets them practice and enjoy quality time with me at the same time.
Now that winter has arrived in Michigan, it is cold and bitter and playing outside isn't always easy. I know that they miss the outdoors. So we have a beach party once in awhile. We make a paper sun, pack a picnic lunch and camp out on the living room floor. This never cost a penny and the laughter lasts a lifetime.
We also take inexpensive road trips every now and then. We would explore our community, and we would spend a day helping an elderly neighbour. It is amazing how much enjoyment a child can get from knowing they did something for someone else. And to see the world through a child's eyes is priceless. Things seem to come alive and the things we miss as an adult become so much clearer.
So put away the video games, turn off the TV, and explore the imagination of a child. Who knows; you may find out something you didn't know!
Heather Newman is a contributor to http://freestuffpage.com Get over 800 verified freebies such as free T-shirts, free beauty samples, free mouse pads, free stickers and more at Free Stuff Page. copyright 2001 by Brian Chow
Sign up for our free eNewsletter Dollar Stretcher for Parents.
Looking for an answer to a frugal living question? Click here to ask a Dollar Stretcher Stretchpert!
To subscribe, check the newsletters you wish to receive, enter your email address and then click Subscribe.
Each month one TDS reader will win $100 just for telling us your favorite time or money saving idea. It could be you!
Click here to share your idea.
Recent winners are:
- Michelle from NC
- Matt from CO
- Joan from CT
- Joanne in New York
|
Money problems? Struggling with credit card debt? What you need to know about bankruptcy? Trouble repaying student loans?
|
Copyright 1996 - 2012 "The Dollar Stretcher, Inc." All rights reserved unless specifically noted.
Contact the Dollar Stretcher at:
Dollar Stretcher
PO Box 14160
Bradenton FL 34280
Voice 941-761-7805
Fax 941-761-8301
"The Dollar Stretcher, Inc." does not assume responsibility for advice given. All advice should be weighed against your own abilities and circumstances and applied accordingly. It is up to the reader to determine if advice is safe and suitable for their own situation.
| About Us | Privacy Policy | Writer's Guidelines | Sponsorship | Media | Contact Us |
Dollar Stretcher Community
Forums
Blogs
Also In This Week's Issue
In The Dollar Stretcher Community
Reader Favorites
Newsletters
Email
Print
Contact Editor
RSS Feed
Share
Leave a Comment
