For the times when you are looking for some healthy family-friendly entertainment, here are a few good (cheap and free!) ideas:
Visit your local library and check out books. While you are there, investigate the free clubs and activities. Many libraries have Anime clubs, game nights and other FREE activities for a wide range of interests. Check the local paper for free festivals, concerts and events. If you had to cancel a family trip because of the economy, spend a few days being a tourist in your own home town. Check your local library for FREE museum passes. Summertime is also a great time to explore playgrounds in your area. Break out of your usual routine and try different playgrounds – a fun way to break up the long summer days and maybe even meet new friends.
Blank journals for writing, drawing and doodling are excellent gifts for kids of all ages at the beginning of the summer – a special place for them to be themselves or try out new ideas in a safe way.
Remember, boredom is an opportunity to discover something new about yourself. It can be uncomfortable at first, though the more unprogrammed time your kids have, the better they will become at entertaining themselves and discovering the stories and ideas they have within.
Years ago when I worked in Brain Injury Rehab as a Recreational Therapist the floor nurses and aids would complain to us in the "Rec" dept when patients where bored. That we should come and fill up their time with activiites. These staff where often dismayed when I got excited and said that it was good that the patient was bored – because the rehab team found that until the patient experienced boredom, it was then that they would start to initiate and self structure themselves.
Amazing story…great connection! Thanks, Debg!