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Tired of having to rack your brains every single weekend trying to come up with something to keep the little ones busy?
When phases of unexpected mini lockdowns keep us at home for much longer periods of time than you are used to, it is no wonder we are running out of ideas for things to do at home. Well, we got you covered this weekend with a list of fuss-free activities you can organise for your little ones and their friends!
We know what you are thinking - no mess, no damage to the furniture and only a good, fun time for your kids. A learning experience will be a great bonus. Whether you want to take it outdoors, or you are choosing to stay home for the weekend, this list is great for keeping groups of two to four little ones busy throughout the day.
Inspired by the old kampung days, these activities allow your little one to create popular toys and games from our past. All you need are things that you would already have in your homes! Each activity even includes some arts-and-craft time for the little playgroup - a win-win for all!
Note: Do double check on the most recent Covid-19 restrictions for social gatherings and unique visitors per household!
FUSS-FREE PLAYDATE IDEAS FOR THE WEEKEND WITH CRAFT AND GAMES
1. Zero Point
(Image credit: parentandchildsg)
Zero Point is one of the earlier forms of skipping rope that involves its own unique set of rules. Made with only rubber bands, this game was popular amongst children during the 1960s and required at least three people to play! The game is a test on how well you jump and consists of multiple levels, starting from as low as your ankle to as high as your head. The best thing about Zero Point is that the rope can be as long as you need it to be, depending on how many people are playing the game. Round the little ones up and get a Zero Point production line going!
What you'll need: A big bag of rubber bands
2. Bola Tin
(Image credit: budakjitralanie)
A game of throwers and rebuilders, Bola Tin is a game that requires players to split themselves into two groups - the throwers and the rebuilders. As the names suggests, the throwers' aim is to knock down the pyramid of tin cans whilst the rebuilders have to protect the pyramid and rebuild it when it gets knocked down! Gather the little ones together and have them customise the tin cans to add fun colours to their game props for a quick craft session before they find an open space to set up and enter game mode.
Check out the video tutorial Teacher Jesse created for the National Museum of Singapore for ideas on how to make colourful bola tins!
What you'll need: 6-10 clean and empty food tin cans, a ball of your choice, coloured paper, colour pencils, scissors and glue
3. Hopscotch
(Image credit: Busy Bees Singapore)
Everyone would have played some form of hopscotch at one point or another despite the variation in game rules. This hopping game is easy to recreate and can look as simple or elaborate as you like! All your little ones need are a small piece of chalk and an open space for them to draw on. If you wish to amp up the craft element, you can make use of colourful washi tape to create the hopscotch boxes - perfect for an indoor situation!
What you'll need: Chalk and a small item that can be tossed around easily (i.e. a purse, keychain or small soft toy)
Now there is more reason to look forward to the weekend!
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About Art Wonders
Art Wonders is a free quarterly e-newsletter and art education resources that was first launched in May 2020. It aims to be an important art education resource in Singapore, featuring insightful articles, interviews, featured collaborations and art education printables. Our main audience include children, parents and art educators and we currently have more than 400 subscribers.
About Stacy
Stacy believes that learning can take place any time, anywhere and with a lot of fun! Dedicated to designing artistic experiences, Stacy wants to provide children with unique ways to discover the world around them.