It’s school holidays for many states, and at some point (maybe on repeat), many parents or grandparents bound to hear the classic: “I’m bored!”
For many parents – especially those working from home – there isn’t always time to play. But that doesn’t mean the kids have to default to endless screen time. With a little creativity, you can help them stay entertained, engaged, and happy at home or while traveling.
Here are some ideas to keep little (and not-so-little) ones busy:
1. Activity Books
Children as young as two or three can enjoy activity books filled with things like spot-the-difference puzzles, mazes, join-the-dots, and tracing.
Wipe-clean versions are especially handy since they can be reused again and again (like the Hey Doodle product range). These encourage focus, problem-solving, and kids can work on them independently, you might even get a few quiet moments to yourself.
* Alphabet Animals Reusable Colouring Mat
* Mary Poppins Illustrated Edition
* Picture Book: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
* Star Wars: Where’s the Wookiee? Colouring Book
* Busy Vehicles Sticker and Activity Pack
* Bestie Bracelets Friendship Bracelet Activity Book
* Create Your Own Mindful Space Book
* Harry Potter Travel Activity Case
2. Arts & Crafts Kits
Let imaginations run wild with simple arts and crafts. Whether it’s painting, making jewellery, cutting and gluing, here are some kits you could use (or amuse) your little ones.
* Paper Planes Activity Kit
* Origami Create My Own Airport Kit
* Rainbow Weaving Loom Activity Kit
* Magic Art Slate (Mini Magic Screen)
* My Pom Pom Pals Craft Activity Kit
* Rainbow Wall Hanging Activity Kit
* DIY Charm Bracelets & Necklace Kit
* Scratch Surprise Unicorn Discovery Kit
* 4M Green Science: Pressed Flower Art Activity Kit
* Disney Animation Studio Activity Kit
3. Games & Puzzles
Board games are a great way to bring the family together, while puzzles are ideal for quiet concentration. Whether it’s a quick card game or a 1,000-piece challenge, games and puzzles can entertain a wide range of ages. Here are some quirky games for kids.
* Yoga Match Game
* Criss-Cross Applesauce Briarpatch Play and Learn Game
* Chess Designer & Activity Kit
* Junior Explorers: Ready, Set, Draw Affirmations Board Game
* Card Game: Uno
* The Human Body Puzzle & Book
4. Outdoor Fun
Sometimes the best boredom buster is simply burning off energy outside. Think frisbees, bubble play, bowling, skipping ropes, or anything that gets the kids moving. Here are some new ideas for you.
* Mini Rainbow Dancer Ribbon-Wand Toy
* Stretchy Spring Dog Fidget Toy
5. Science & Experiments
Make learning feel like play by setting up simple science experiments or activities. From mixing safe ingredients to watch them fizz and bubble, to building simple models, kids will love exploring new ideas.
Here are some cool ideas for you.
* Extreme Spiders of the World Activity Kit
* Explore Australia Dig Activity Kit
* 7 Wonders of the World Activity Kit
* Treasure Island Dig & Play Kit
* Snakes of Australia Activity Kit
* Bug Study Set
* Make Your Own FM Radio Kit (STEM)
If you have any questions or you’re shopping for ideas for the holidays, you can email us at anytime at hello@daylesfordtrading.com.au. Gary, the owner of Daylesford Trading Co, was a former teacher so can help guide you through products for your child or their age group.