(Another wonderful blog post from our favorite guest blogger, Denise Long!)
It’s important to introduce young kids to a variety of hobbies. Not only is it a better way for them to pass the time compared to staring at their screens, but having hobbiesis an important part of development. Of course, raising a family isn’t cheap, and most parents have to find ways to entertain their kids while staying within a budget. However, have no fear! These activities can open up worlds to your children without breaking the bank.
Cool Science Experiments
Kids have a natural aptitude for science because of their curiosity. You can help pique that curiosity with budget-friendly experiments that you can compose from the groceries you pick up anyways; remember to use weekly salesand dealsfor retailers like Walmart to help keep your budget under control. Kids learn about chemistry, physics, and more. You get to spend quality time teaching them critical learning skills and the magic that is science.
Some very cool experiments you can start off with:
- Make your own edible glass.
- The rainbow jar
- Mentos and diet cola explosion
- Fruit battery
Honestly, the internet is a treasure trove of kid-friendly experiments. Look at what you have on hand, type those ingredients and “kid science experiment” into a search engine, and you’ll be able to find something fun for the family to do on a rainy day!
Cool Instruments and Making Music
Learning how to play an instrument is one of the most beneficial hobbies out there. It nurtures a child’s ability to express themselves, teaches them about perseverance and the rewards of hard work, and exposes them to culture and history. Furthermore, there is evidence that playing music improves math skills, reading skills, coordination, listening skills, and social skills.
Of course, you don’t have to invest a ton of money in professional equipment just yet. Stoke your child’s interest with musical instruments, and take advantage of discounts and savings for stores like Target to cut down on costs. Whenever it’s family jam band time, teach them the basic elements of music such as rhythm, melody, and harmony. In no time, you’ll pique their interest in pursuing their instrument of choice.
Cool Cooking Lessons
Teaching children how to cook is one of the best skills you can pass down. Tap into your inner Gordon Ramsay and teach them the basic skills they need to start creating their very own dishes. You can find starter kits on the cheap by using daily offers and cashback opportunities for Amazon. Once you’re ready, start with the cooking skills every kid should know:
- How to use a knife
- How to wash and cut produce
- Making a salad -- with dressing
- How to cook grains and rice
- How to roast vegetables in the oven
- How to make a simple pasta dish
- How to bake something sweet
- How to cook eggs (if not vegan)
- How to cook meat (if not vegetarian/vegan)
- And, of course, how to clean the kitchen!
Once those basic skills are mastered, you can start experimenting with kid-friendly recipes together. Try your hand at making your own fruit leather, teach them how to make a basic grilled cheese, and mix it up on Taco Tuesday and experiment with alternative fillings. The only limits are your imagination and grocery list.
Hobbies are an essential part of healthy child development. They teach kids to be more well-rounded and interesting people. You can help your child find a hobby they love by introducing them to cool activities that pique their curiosity while teaching them new things. Doing home experiments makes science come alive for kids -- and you don’t even have to invest in a bunch of equipment to do them. Learning an instrument is one of the best things a person can do for their brain. Get kids interested with starter instruments you can all play together. Finally, learning how to cook is an essential life skill. Help your little MasterChef Junior get started with their very own cooking kit and kid-friendly recipes.
Photo by Eye for Ebonyon Unsplash