Love it: How to keep children occupied at home

With many schools closed, your children may think they can stay in their pyjamas all day watching TV.

However, now more than ever, it is important to keep children mentally and physically stimulated to prevent them regressing and to take their focus off the stress of this time.

1. Maintain a morning and evening routine

Ensure they are up at a reasonable time and have a wash and breakfast. This helps them mentally prepare for the day ahead.

Bedtime should be the same time every day and establish a routine before bedtime to get them in the right mindset for bed such as reading a book or saying their prayers.

2. Get them involved

Give them chores to do around the house such as preparing breakfast, making beds or hanging out laundry. This creates a sense of purpose and motivation.

3. Home schooling

If your school has not provided work for the children to do from home, there are many online platforms offering free age-appropriate home school lessons.

Alternatively, use their school textbooks to set daily lesson plans. This makes sure they have not regressed once schools reopen.

4. Factor in playtime

Ensure your child has some free time every day because play is also a way to learn new things. If you are at home as well, this may be a great bonding opportunity.

5. Physical exercise

Make sure your child is exercising outdoors regularly as the sun is vital for their development. It also allows them to get some fresh air, stretch their limbs and strengthen their growing muscles.

You can play a game of football or hopscotch with them or make it more structured by following an online PE class.

6. Family time

It is important to spend some time together as a whole family to reinforce relationships. Play a board game or do some arts and crafts or baking together.

7. Make a timetable

Write a timetable and put it up in a place everyone can see. This will help the child structure themselves and help the rest of the family maintain the routine.