So I've been a babysitter for quite sometime now. I think I started when I was 12, that should give somewhat credibility in being able to come up with something to do with the kids right? At one point in time I actually had kids requesting I come over just so I could tell them bedtime stories about 'Princess Lily' in Candyland. Well, I'm sad to say this, but I have realized that I am no longer the fun babysitter....I have been replaced by the media. I have suggested playing games, drawing, and pretty much turning off anything that had an on/off button! However, I found that the majority of my time babysitting more recently has been entrenched in the media. Maybe I am just old school but I feel like I didn't do that as much when I was growing up. I ran outside and made 'potions' from the dirt/weeds/whatever, made forts, played street hockey/tag/basketball, went to the park, made jewelry, did crafts, played games, and just did a lot more that was not so media saturated. I think I turned out ok...I'll let you be the judge of that. I'm just really surprised that its hard to think of a way to have fun together without it involving the tv, videogames, ipods, etc. Granted, sometimes the weather is bad like it has been lately, it was but I still think there are ways to have time better spent. Any suggestions for next time or thoughts of how I can balance keeping up with 'modern' kids interests while not being glued to a screen?
When I was younger, I spent more time outside as well. When the weather was bad, my family usually played card games, read books, sometimes watched movies, cooked, or worked on other hobbies. Those are not very specific ideas, but maybe they will help.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree!! I remember when I used to babysit and we would have so much fun making crafts, playing games, dressing up, jumping on the tramp, etc! But now, a lot of the times the kids say, lets watch a movie! I think at the end of the night that is totally fine and you can just make it fun by popping popcorn and getting blankets and making it a fun movie night! :)
DeleteTotally true. I have noticed that as well. I feel like kinds imaginations are starting to lack. Really just do things with kids that you did. Crafting is always my favorite :)
ReplyDeleteI don't always think there is a lot you can do with other people's kids... If they are so media saturated that they don't know how or want to play then.... it's going to take much more than a babysitting trip to get past that. But the good news is that any kids will be lucky to have you as their mom, and you'll be able to explore the outside world of adventure together!
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