You’ll have to get used to it, heatwave episodes are likely to increase in number over the coming summers. The thermometer climbs meteorically, sometimes reaching almost unrivaled records. So parents, what should we do with our children during these periods of intense heat, as unbearable for them as for us? In this article, you will find some cool ideas to adopt at home!
Bet on water games!
Obviously, not everyone has the means to install an indoor swimming pool at home for their happy little ones. Perhaps you could then opt for a above ground pool ?. (However, if you have a large living room or a spacious garage, this is still the #1 idea to adopt. Consider it!) But, it seems certain (unless you live in a cave) that each accommodation has at least one bathroom; and it is this living space that interests us here. Do you know about colored pencils for the shower and bathtub?
These are pencils intended for making drawings directly on the tiles, the shower tray or the edges of the bathtub, and which are then easily erased with a simple wipe of a sponge. It is magic ! You can also consider investing in these little mechanical fish, which move on their own through the water. The children can then have fun racing, against each other or against the clock, or even invent an aquatic course for the little fish, in your bathtub or sink. Hours of play and laughter guaranteed!
If you have a large bathtub, the essential game of duck fishing is also an excellent alternative. And if you don’t have the necessary equipment ready to use, why not invite the children themselves to make their own fishing rod. A piece of wood, a piece of string, and that’s it! The main thing is to stay cool, with your feet in the water as much as possible, while waiting for the hot weather to pass…
Get back to basics!
The strong heat marks a halt in the dynamism of the home. This is normal, and it is even beneficial. No more long hikes under a lead screed at 40°C, no more turbulent games where we heckle and chase each other, until we are more soaked than a mop… It is necessary not to get too activate so as not to raise the temperature even further. Also, why not go back to basic activities such as family board games, cooking, or even drawing? This is enough to guarantee great moments of calm, relaxation and sharing with family.
Have you forgotten those moments of conviviality with your parents, brothers, sisters or even cousins, during those endless games of Monopoly, Cluedo or even the legendary games of 7 families? Salt dough, modeling dough, or even making beaded bracelets are also great activities to consider!
Obviously, we can only advise you to take advantage of this period of calm to encourage your children to enjoy a few moments of reading, alone or in your company. Great game books, such as the “seek and find” collections, are also a great alternative for younger children. Enough to keep your toddlers sufficiently far away from the TV and screens, which they love, for the rest of the day!