Despite having a seemingly endless number of activities at their
disposal, it’s almost inevitable that 9- to 12-year-olds will regularly utter the two dreaded words: “I’m bored.” While this catchphrase is — let’s face it — a little annoying, it’s important for parents and caregivers to remember that physical and mental stimulation is crucial for tweens, and the relationship between the two is symbiotic. “Being stimulated mentally and physically is very important to kids in
this [9-12] age group,” says board-certified pediatrician Dr. Jen Trachtenberg, noting that the latter plays a vital role in the former. “Tweens should be striving for 30-60 minutes of heart-pumping exercise a day, which in turn will improve
overall wellness, including better sleep, more confidence, decreased anxiety and depression and better focus.” Trachtenberg notes that, while team sports come with social benefits, things like “running, yoga or even taking a brisk walk together” are just as good for getting their heart rate up.
When it comes to finding mentally stimulating activities for tweens, Trachtenberg recommends activities where kids can “relax and be creative without being judged.” “Reading, doing art projects together and cooking and baking are all great ways to bond with children and work on their mental fitness,” she says. The next time your preteen starts complaining about not having anything to do, try out some of these stimulating activities to do with tweens:
Once you and the kids get started on this list, you’ll probably never hear that they’re bored again! Or you will, and that’s OK, too. Like what you're reading? Join Care for FREEWhat can a 10 year old do when bored at home?Check out these kid activities perfect for a day indoors.. Boredom Jar. One creative parent told us she made a “boredom” jar for her house. ... . Build a Fort. Who doesn't love a fort on a stormy day? ... . Indoor Obstacle Course. ... . Write a Letter. ... . Sock Puppets. ... . Dress Up. ... . Imaginary Creatures. ... . Tea Party.. What can a 10 year old do at home?100 Things for Kids to Do at Home When Bored. Read a book.. Watch cartoons.. Watch a movie.. Draw a picture.. Play instruments.. Have a family study group.. Play with a pet.. Put a puzzle together.. What can a 10 years old do when bored?Boredom-busting ideas for active kids. Play a sport outside. This is such a simple idea, but sometimes kids just need someone to put it in their heads. ... . Wash the car. ... . Go for a bike ride. ... . Do 'mindful movement' videos. ... . Play hide-and-seek. ... . Make a fort. ... . Have a dance party. ... . Make an obstacle course.. What do 10 year olds do at home with friends?Cook Together.. Karaoke Night.. Have a BBQ.. Start a Garden.. Read a Book.. Play a Board Game.. Make Homemade Greeting Cards.. Role Play.. |