Category: Well-Being

In today’s world, where everyone is obsessed with consumerism, it is maybe time to take a step back and curate a few thoughtful gifts for your children. The Australian Toy and Gaming industry is $586 million in 2022 and has grown faster than the country’s economy, reports Ibis Research.

So as a concerned parent, it is time to think about how you can make sure your gifts to your children help in their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Here, we have suggested six gift ideas for your kids which take care of them, help them grow their imagination, and also let them enjoy.

1. A Gaming Chair

For our children, video games are an important part of life. As parents, it is natural to feel apprehensive about the long hours they spend on the console.  On the other hand, the gamer in your child will probably want video games or gaming accessories for Christmas. Try gifting them a gaming chair to ensure they are not plagued with back or neck pain from spending long hours playing games.

Australians have spent nearly AUD 4 billion playing video games in 2021 alone. Mobile games accounted for AUD 1.51 Billion, the rest being on a console or PC.  Like your fellow Aussies, if your child spends close to 90 minutes playing a video game, you should be very careful about the gaming chair you buy.

We suggest you go through online reviews to find the best gaming chair for your child. Choose one based on ergonomics. Check the color and style preferences of your child so that it is used by them.

2. An Outdoor Experience

Children got tired of staying indoors all the time, especially during the Covid-19 lockdowns. In a study by the Australian Bureau of Statistics in 2021, 22% of Australians felt their mental health was taking a turn for the “worse” during the lockdowns.

If it is possible for you, try to treat your child to a short trip somewhere in Australia. You can opt for a beach stay or choose to take your child camping. You may also choose to spend a couple of days exploring the zoo and other interesting places in your community. What matters to your child is the time you spend with them and the quality of the same.

3. An Aquarium or Terrarium

Terrariums and aquariums are great gift ideas. They’re beautiful and easy to care for. They will give your child the opportunity to create their little ecosystem without needing too much room.

As a low-maintenance gift idea, terrariums are a great for anyone who loves plants. They’re also a great way to get your kids interested in gardening. Because they’re enclosed, they don’t need much maintenance. They’re an ideal gift for your child if they would like to have a slice of nature in their rooms.

You can give your child the gift of seeing their favorite animal in real life. An aquarium lets you do that, and it looks great on any shelf or table. You can spend some time every day with your child feeding the fish and watching them feed. It is a ritual that will engage your child and help you both witness something soothing and magical without spending time in front of a screen.

4. Battery-Powered Ride-On Car

For a truly extraordinary gift for your child, one that will certainly wow them, battery-powered Ride-On Cars are becoming increasingly popular for kids. It’s not uncommon to see these miniature toy cars cruise the sidewalks throughout neighborhoods. Sure to ignite any child’s imagination and unleash a world of fun-filled adventures, these units come in a variety of captivating designs and are equipped with kid-friendly features.

Whether your child dreams of racing through imaginary landscapes or emulating their favorite grown-up drivers, this mini vehicle idea provides a safe and thrilling experience. They also promote outdoor play. As kids zoom around the neighborhood or backyard, their sense of independence and confidence grows.

And let’s face it, someday they will be driving their own real-life cars. So, why not allow them to learn safe driving habits in a Battery-Powered Ride-On Car?  It’s not just a toy; it’s a thoughtful gift that sparks a sense of exploration in young hearts.

5. Books

Books are a great gift for kids because they help develop intellectual curiosity and help kids build their vocabularies. They also provide an opportunity for children to learn about themselves and the world around them, and they can be a source of comfort in times of stress or anxiety.

You can buy board books for babies who haven’t learned to read yet. These books have thick pages that are easy to turn, and they usually feature bright colors and simple pictures that can help entertain your little ones while they’re learning how to use their hands properly.

For older children who are just starting school, you might want to look into chapter books or storybooks that are aimed at their age group. These types of books tend to have more complex storylines than those designed for younger children, which makes them more engaging for older kids who are trying to get used to reading on their own for the first time.

We hope this article helps you choose a thoughtful gift that is both useful and fun for your child and suits your budget. We understand that you may have budget constraints at this point and may not be able to shop for all the presents on your child’s wishlist. What truly matters to your child is that you invested your time and effort in giving them something this festive season.

6. DIY Craft and Hobby Kits

DIY craft kits are excellent gifts for kids of all ages. They’re fun. Kids love to create things and put their spin on them. They enjoy the process of creating, which is something that they can’t get from just buying something at the store.

They’re educational. DIY craft kits teach children how to work with their hands and enjoyably use their imaginations.

They encourage creativity and problem-solving skills. By giving your child a DIY craft kit as a gift, you’re encouraging them to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions for completing their projects.

Make sure you spend an optimum amount and don’t divert funds from other important activities for your child, like dance or music lessons.

7. eBike

Electric bikes have been all the rage for adults.  Now smaller versions for kids are set to provide children with the same experience.  While ebikes provide electric assistance, they still require pedaling. This helps kids engage in physical activity and develop a healthier lifestyle.

With the electric assistance, kids can cover longer distances without getting as tired. This makes it easier for them to explore new areas or go on longer family bike rides.

Ebikes also promote reduced sedentary time.  With the growing prevalence of screen time and sedentary activities, e-bikes provide an enjoyable way for kids to spend time outdoors, reducing the time spent in front of screens.  E-bikes can be a great option for kids with varying levels of physical fitness or abilities.

8. Dinosaur Slippers

Some kids love clothing related gifts. Others think they are boring. However, when you combine practicality with fun the gift can be truly unique and thoughtful. Slippers offer cozy comfort for little feet. But slippers designed to look like your own personal pet dinosaurs add fun to every step your child takes.

At night when they slip out of their dinosaur slippers and crawl into bed, this new pair of dino friends become trusted companions who watch over the room while your little one sleeps. And when morning arrives, jumping out of bed will be that much more enticing with protection from the cold floor that awaits.

9 Lightsaber

Lightsabers have become as ubiquitous as droids in a galaxy far, far away, capturing the hearts and imaginations of fans young and old. These glowing wonders have skyrocketed in popularity faster than the Millennium Falcon making the Kessel Run. From epic duels in the backyard to impromptu Jedi training sessions in the living room, lightsaber toys have become the ultimate accessory for aspiring Padawans and seasoned Jedi Masters alike.

With a rainbow of colors to choose from, enthusiasts can embrace their inner Sith Lord or channel their inner Rey, creating a dazzling spectacle that’s more entertaining than a cantina band on Tatooine. Whether you’re battling the dark side or simply spicing up a dull Tuesday afternoon, the force is strong with these luminous playthings, making them a must-have for anyone looking to add a dash of intergalactic excitement to their daily adventures.

May the fun be with you!

The game of Scrabble has been around for over seventy years and is still enjoyed by millions of people the world over. It’s a simple game, but one that can be extremely strategic, providing hours of fun for all players. Why has Scrabble has been so successful? Here are some reasons why it’s one of the most brilliant games with friends!

 The History of Scrabble

Scrabble was created in 1938 by Dr. Alfred Butts, a student at the University of Cambridge. Butts and his friends were looking for an easy game to play while drinking beers outdoors, and they came up with the idea of creating a board game that consisted of 26 tiles. The tiles were originally designed to spell words, but over time people began to create more complex boards and games were born.

The popularity of Scrabble grew rapidly, and in 1949 Butts sold the rights to the game to a company called J.W. Spear & Sons Ltd. In 1963, Milton Bradley Company acquired Spear & Sons Ltd., and they continue to manufacture Scrabble today.

The Many Variations of Scrabble

There are many variations of Scrabble available today, including Junior Scrabble, Word Scraper, Crossword scraper, and even a board game called Crokinole! Each variation has its own set of rules and is designed for a specific audience (e.g., Junior Scrabble is meant for children aged 6-10).

The Importance of Vocabulary in Scrabble

One of the main reasons why Scrabble has been so popular over the years is that it is incredibly challenging and fun to play with friends.

What Makes Scrabble So Good?

There Are Many Ways To Play

Unlike other games where players must follow a set pattern in order to win, Scrabble allows for a lot of creativity and flexibility. Players can create their own scrabble words and strategies, making the game infinitely replayable. There’s virtually no way to lose, which makes it an excellent game to play with friends.

It’s Relatively Easy To Learn But Difficult To Master

Scrabble is one of the easiest games to learn, but it can be quite challenging to become a skilled player. The rules are simple enough that even beginners can understand them, but complex enough that experts will have a lot of fun playing them. This makes it both accessible and exciting for all kinds of players.

It Can Be Played Anywhere And With Anyone

No matter where you are or who you’re with, you can always enjoy a game of Scrabble. The game is portable and easy to play, so it can be enjoyed anywhere there are people willing to play. Plus, because the rules are so simple, even children can easily enjoy the game without feeling intimidated or lost.

 How Do You Play Scrabble?

Scrabble is a board game, as well as a popular word game, that can be played with two to four players, and it is considered one of the most brilliant games with friends. The object of the game is to get all of your tiles off the board while blocking your opponents from doing the same. There are several ways to play Scrabble, but the most common way to play is with Wordsmiths. Wordsmiths are players who know how to use all the letters in Scrabble, which gives them an advantage over other players. There are also Noobs who don’t know how to use all the letters in Scrabble, and they have to learn as they go along.

Another way to play Scrabble is with Crosswords. Crosswords are similar to Scrabble because they both require players to use all of their tiles and they both have a word list. However, Crosswords usually have more squares on the grid than Scrabble does, so it takes a bit longer for a player to make their move.

There is also trivia night, where players can compete against each other by answering questions about different aspects of Scrabble. Finally, there is always the option for people to host their own tournaments where everyone can come and compete for prizes.

Best Friends and Scrabble: Why It’s So Brilliant

• It’s a social game that can be played by anyone, regardless of age or language barriers.
• There’s something about the mental challenge of scrabble that is just really satisfying.
• You can always make new friends by playing scrabble together!
• It’s a great way to stay active and keep your brain active – which is great for your health!
• Scrabble is also a great way to bond with your family and friends – it can be fun for everyone in the family!
• It never gets old – you can always pick up the game and play it again, no matter how long ago you last played it!

Conclusion

Scrabble has been around for over 100 years, and it is still one of the most popular board games with friends. There are many reasons why this game is so fun and engaging: the strategic gameplay, the different word choices, and the ability to build relationships over time make Scrabble a favorite pastime for many people. Whether you’re looking for an enjoyable way to spend some quality time with your friends or you need a new challenge in your life, give Scrabble a try – you won’t regret it!

Social media has become the main way adults and children alike socialize in today’s world. While it can be a tool to connect with others, social media can also hinder our social lives, especially for our kids. Children need in-person interaction to develop healthy social skills and engage in physical activity.

Regular social media interactions also leave your child more susceptible to cyberbullying or encountering inappropriate websites, which could damage their emotional health and development.

First, Ensure Social Media Safety

Social media can provide some good. It helps your child stay updated with technology and enables them to participate in online games and discussions with kids like them worldwide. This can help them learn and grow without isolating themselves from other people. However, this is best supervised and limited or your child could experience the unsavory side effects of those activities.

You want your child to be safe, and their online safety is a part of making that happen. One of the best ways to ensure this is to make sure they know the best ways to interact online. Teach them never to give out their personal information or use a credit card without your permission. They should also never use their full name in chat threads or lie about their age when trying to enter a website, regardless of whether their friends use it.

One of the best ways to keep your kids safe online is by experiencing the websites they go on yourself. The more you know about a platform your child visits, the more secure you will feel about their interaction with it.

No matter how kids use social media, a lack of activities outside the web can harm their physical, mental and emotional health. Living their life solely online can lead to social awkwardness and isolation as they grow into adults. It can also cause communication breakdowns since they don’t learn how to respond to body language and other physical cues.

Here are three ways to develop your child’s social life without screens

1. Get Them Involved in Extracurricular Activities

As your child grows, they will develop interests and personality traits suited for various activities. This is the first step in moving your child toward a healthy mix of online and offline social activity.  Encourage them to get involved in a club or sport they’re interested in.

They can get exercise by playing basketball, swimming or hiking, dig into their academic interests by joining a math team or history club, or experience their media hobbies in new ways by playing cards and board games regularly with friends.

Many activities take place on weeknights, giving them something positive to do after school away from the computer.

Interacting with others lets them practice the social skills they will need in adult life, such as having in-person conversations, resolving physical and emotional conflicts, moving their body, and getting fresh air. Other abilities include learning about keeping on schedule and making commitments, which can be much more flexible online than in the real world.

Moreover, before and after school care can help build your child’s social skills by participating in group activities. These activities provide opportunities to build stronger friendships.  When children feel confident to make new friends, they develop more positive interactions, which can lead to a healthy adult social life, as you can learn more here.

2. Cater to Their Mental Health

Your child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health, so it’s necessary to nurture it the same.

Children who struggle mentally are less able to engage in interpersonal situations, leaving them feeling isolated and unfit for their activities. Poor mental health also affects their mood, making them appear annoyed or hostile to other kids. These social struggles can be one major reason why kids rely on online social spaces, rather than in-person.

Teach your children the importance of mental health and how they should talk about any thoughts or feelings that bother them. Assure them that getting specialized care is the same as treating a physical illness and nothing to feel embarrassed about.

The more age-appropriate knowledge they have about their mental health, the less likely they will try to bottle up their emotions or engage in unhealthy habits.

You can support your child’s mental health by encouraging healthy relationship with social media, healthy eating, exercising, and talking openly about feelings without yelling or judging. Ensure they can identify when they are struggling and help them find safe individuals to speak with if they are too embarrassed to talk to you about a situation.

3. Be An Example

You are your child’s biggest example of how to interact with the world, so it’s important to model positive behaviors for them.

Be active and participate in social activities outside of your work or phone. Treat others respectfully, set appropriate boundaries and limit your screen time.

Your children can also learn how to interact with peers by practicing similar interactions with you, so have fun together. Doing enjoyable things with your child can help you bond and show them how someone who loves and respects them should treat them. All these things help them decide who they will be as an adult.

Set a dedicated time to talk to your child every day, asking more in-depth questions than simply knowing how their day was. Small talks about their favorite food, new friends, and other personal matters help develop a stronger parent-child relationship. When your child feels that you’re interested in what they have to say, they’ll look forward to it every time instead of spending time on social media.

Encouraging Their Social Life

Your child has unique interests and hobbies. They may find similar peers and activities online, but it’s important to encourage social interactions away from the screen. Helping them learn in-person communication as a child sets them up to be happy, productive adults.

They’ll be more open in communicating with other people verbally. This is crucial in building healthy interpersonal relationships. This is especially true when they reach the adulthood stage. Your child will become more sensitive to other people’s feelings, as well as their own. Increased awareness about self and others is an integral aspect of developing good coping mechanisms. You can talk to a child expert to get personalized recommendations as to how you can best deal with your child based on a thorough evaluation.

Author bio:
Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She strives to live a happy and healthy life with her family by her side.

Follow Cora on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Although kids love playing with dirt, they don’t see gardening as a fun activity. Kids enjoy engaging in action-packed and captivating activities. But you can make gardening engrossing. Kids learn important lessons when they participate in gardening activities.

They learn about patience, responsibility, building relationships, preserving the environment, and eating healthy. Gardening also keeps them connected to nature. So, how can we get kids to love gardening?

You will need to turn up the fun element while gardening. It will make your kids enjoy the activities. Stick on to the article. I’ll talk about how to turn gardening into a fun activity.

Carve Out a Piece for the Kids

You’ll have to teach the kids basic lessons about gardening. Let it be a hands-on activity. A fantastic way to get hands-on is by sectioning part of the gardening for your kids. It will allow them to learn and garden alongside you. Get them their gardening tools and let them explore different gardening ideas on the little plot allocated to them.

Let them choose what they wish to grow in their little section. Your child learns lots of things when they have the space to explore and try new activities. Teach them how to grow these plants and let the picking and planting be child-led. Don’t take over the planting. It will encourage independence and cultivate responsibility among the kids.

If you don’t have enough space in your yard, you can take the gardening indoors. Section off your garden from the kids’ garden using dividers or indoor grow tents. Use artificial grass to make it all look more like the outside. The second one will allow you to teach the kids more about controlling lighting conditions, water, humidity, and temperature levels for the plants.

Quirky Planters

Let the garden be an arts and crafts lesson for your kids. Turn plastic bottles into quirky and adorable planters. You can paint and turn the bottles into animated creatures. Let your kids paint the eggshells and use them to germinate seeds. You can let them create mini gardens using eggshells. Additionally, consider privacy planters for your railings, providing both greenery and seclusion to your outdoor space. Moreover, eggshells contain calcium and nitrogen. The seedling will love them.

Also, you can let them create colorful garden markers. The markers will be a gorgeous addition to the garden. It’s fun and brightens the garden.

Sensory Stimulation

Let your kids touch the soil, plants, and worms. Allow them to learn about insects. You can let them dig and plant using tools and bare hands. It’s a safe way to let them amuse themselves in the dirt away from your white walls and furniture.

Let them clean the garden, pull weeds, and help you harvest.

Create a Fairy Mini Garden

Ask them to design a fairy garden. It’s an amazing way to expand their imagination and creativity. It will upskill them on how to turn simple things like rocks or sticks into something magical. Let them be in charge of their mini gardens. Don’t be worried about the dirt. Let them feel the different textures and enjoy getting messy. Don’t be surprised to see them covered in mud from head to toe. Messiness is part of crafting a beautiful fairy garden.

Artsy Self-Watering Planters

You kids can also learn how to make self-watering plants. It’s fun and educational. Teach them about recycling and how recycling preserves the environment. You’ll need plastic bottles with caps and strings. Paint the bottles. Cut them in half, drill holes on the caps, tie knots, and pull the strings through the holes.

Tighten the caps and upturn the top half of the bottle. Fill the top half with soil and plant seeds or seedlings. Add water to the other half and insert the inverted top half. Let the strings touch the water. And there you have it, a self-watering planter.

Composting

Let your kids actively engage in the actual composting process. They can watch how food waste turns into nutritious food for the plants. Get them transparent jars to make their compost. Let them label their containers and set them in a place that receives sunlight. Let them top up their compost jar every two weeks. Within 2 to 3 months, the compost will transform nutritious food for their plants.

Last Thoughts

It’s easy to make gardening an enjoyable activity for your kids. Gardening gets your children away from video games, technology, and screens and connects them with nature. Studies have established that kids who play and connect more with nature perform better academically. Moreover, they learn about the environment, insects, and plants. They learn about plants, their life cycle, and how to tend their gardens. They also learn about food and eating healthy.

Gardening is just one of many activities that introduce children to something new to do.  Ultimately, these endeavours help determine what they may become interested in for life.  Here are a few other projects that help kids bond with parents while learning a new skill.

Author:  Marigona Ismajli