Therapeutic and Engaging Activities for Parents and Children

By: Elizabeth Koblenz, LMSW

After being inside for a long period of time, you may begin to notice that your child starts to tell you they are bored at home. It is important for your child to remain productive and active during this time, which ultimately will help them stay motivated and engaged. A great way to engage your child is with a parent-child activity. Feeling bored can also lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety, which can be combated by an activity that can be done together. When your child begins to exhibit signs of boredom or anxiety, it can be helpful to present your child with suggestions on activities that you can enjoy together. If you are finding that your child is having a difficultly choosing an activity, you can offer a menu of options, so they can always have something to choose from! Here are some examples of therapeutic and productive activities for you and your child to engage in inside together: 

1.     Find a specific time to read together. 

If your child is learning how to read, take the time to have them choose a book and read with them. If your child can read, allow them to grab their favorite book and read alongside you – wherever that may be in your home. This can be a very relaxing and therapeutic way to unwind after a long day of distanced learning. It will also give you the ability to bond. Reading is a great way to relax the mind and dive into a world of imagination. 

2.     Put on a workout video for your child. 

Because children are sitting in front of a screen more than they are used to, it is important that your child gets some form of exercise during this time. Doing a workout class is therapeutic and entertaining. There are many free workout videos that are kid-friendly and can be found on YouTube or social media. If your child loves to dance, there are tons of free dance classes online, and if your child wants to do a more calming workout, there are online yoga classes specific for children.

3.     Bake a new recipe. 

Start with researching a new recipe that you and your child have never made or use a go-to family favorite. Baking is collaborative and will help your child learn how to work in tandem in the kitchen. This is a great opportunity to have them take initiative by asking them to measure out the ingredients and mix them together, which as a bonus, can help build their self-esteem and confidence! Measuring the ingredients is a great way for your child to learn and do something fun at the same time.  

4.     Start a TV show together.

Find a kid-friendly show that you can start watching with your child. Allocate a set amount of time each day to watch the show as it will give your child something to look forward to at the end of the day. Ask them to share thoughts and feelings about each episode once it ends. Keeping the conversation going about predictions on the next episode of what they think will happen will also help keep the line of communication open between you and your child. 

5. Teach your child a new game.

Finding time engage in a game together can be a great way to spend quality time together. Choose a game that you both either love to play or that your child has never played and teach them how. This can be an opportunity to create a tradition of playing a fun board game to help pass the time.