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Cabin fever is a term to describe feelings of irritability and restlessness that come with extended indoor time and reduced activity. Children can't always tell us when they are experiencing boredom, low motivation, loneliness, or that feeling of, "I've got to get out of this place." Parents can pay attention to behaviors that indicate their children need help and respond with engaging activities to alleviate cabin fever. Below is a list of ideas to help you turn your child's boredom into fun!
- Do an indoor picnic. Have your child help plan the meal, prep, and pack, and then choose a room different from where you normally eat to have your picnic.
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Explore a hobby. Sharing a favorite hobby with your child is a great way to spend time together, or you can learn a new hobby together! Check out this article with 50+ ideas to help you get started.
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Build a blanket fort - watching movies or playing games is much more fun in a cozy tent. Older children are great at designing the space, and younger children just love being under the covers. Check out this video for a guide on designing your indoor fort.
- Have a dance party. Turn out the lights, get out your flashlights and disco ball, and put on some tunes!
- Read a chapter book. Whether your children are old enough to read independently or are still growing their reading skills, they will enjoy having a fun story read to them. Ask your local library for chapter book suggestions suitable for your age, children, and interests.
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Set up an indoor obstacle course. Young bodies crave exercise, but to keep it safe indoors, some structure helps. Check out this video of 20+ ideas for simple obstacle courses you can set up quickly.
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Cook together. Children love to be a part of cooking, and even young children can help by stirring batter, tearing lettuce, and adding ingredients. Check out this video for great ideas!
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Science experiments can be done with items you probably already have at home. Check out this series of science experiments you can do right in your kitchen.
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Indoor snowball games can be a great way to burn off energy! For instructions on how to make no-sew snowballs, check out this article.
If you need more ideas to interact with your little one, check out Vroom! Vroom is a free app that you can download on your phone that provides activities aimed at children five and under. Once you put in your child's age, you will have access to different activities that will grow with them as they age! Example:
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