Spring is here, however, it may be too cold or rainy to play outside. So, you as a parent have to become creative in order for your children to have fun activities to do. The only material you need to do many of the below activities may be an item you have already at home, A BOX. Boxes can be great toys for your kids. You just need to be creative, and you and your kids can share a fun activity. If you don’t have a big cardboard box, you can stop by any grocery store or home goods store and ask for one. There are dozens of ideas you can find online about what you can do with a box. I found a couple that I thought might be fun indoors while the weather is not cooperating with us. Your children can practice fine and gross motor activities as well as pretend play for social-emotional skills. This also promotes your child’s creativity.
Scribbling or Drawing Inside of the Box
photo credit: berrysweetbaby.blogspot.com
For the first activity, all you need are crayons (washable may be prefered) and a box. Place your kiddo inside of the box with the crayons and add some music to set the zone, then let him draw to his heart's content. This is a great activity for a child of any age, but may be particularly fun for your two year old. While encouraging creativity, it also helps to develop those fine motor skills. If you are afraid that your child may write on the walls, a box can be a life saver.
Impromptu Slide
What would happen if you opened up your giant box? If your house has a staircase, here is a great idea to promote gross motor skills by allowing you child to climb the stairs and slide down the makeshift "slide" You can also incorporate opportunities to develop his social-emotional skills by inviting friends over to socialize and practice those turn-taking skills. For more specific details, including some safety tips, click HERE.
Dinosaur Feet
Here's a fun idea to encourage gross motor skills. By making the act of walking a little more difficult, children need to learn to lift up their feet or slide them to move around. Check THIS out for instructions and materials to duplicate this creative idea.
Cardboard Fort
You can also create a simple fort. Add Christmas lights or cut out shapes for windows or doors, and you've created a cozy hideaway or house. Your child will enjoy pretend play games or simply having their own secret space.
Cardboard RoadThis idea is another one that is great for all ages, but try it out with your younger child. It's great for exploring. Even babies can enjoy boxes.  | Books About BoxesVisit your local library to borrow the above books to reinforce your child's creativity and discover even more uses for the typical cardboard box. |
"Box" Train Cars
If you have some file boxes, black paper plates, duct tape and some fun colored paper lying around, why not use them to make train cars? Involve your little ones in the color selection and construction of the "cars". Then, show them how to line the "cars" up to form a train. They can have hours of fun playing and pretending with their train. When they tire of a long day of "working on the railroad", bring out the popcorn, a fun movie and this can convert into a viewing area for your child. It’s SHOWTIME!
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