Activities for Nannies and Children

Nannies are skilled childcare professionals, but even the best of the best sometimes run out of ideas for what to do during long summer holidays, rainy afternoons or any day that the children seem especially fractious. Having a list of activities that nannies and children can choose from may be able to salvage even the most sordid day. Below are some ideas for activities that nannies and children to enjoy together and don't require much preparation.

The Local Library

Many people forget about the benefits of the local library, not the least of which is often a host of children's activities. These programmes often including storytellers, artists, children's writers and even puppets and actors who share fun (and free!) activities with the kids. Even if there is nothing particular planned, a trip to the library always offers books, DVDs, books on CD, computer fun and magazines that can be enjoyed at no or very low cost. If your family are not yet members of the local library, join today to take advantage of all of these great offers.

The Local Leisure Centre

Whether your family belongs to a private country club or just has access to a local leisure centre, it never hurts to drop in once in a while to see what's going on. Swimming lessons, access to sports equipment and a variety of special classes (yoga for kids, perhaps?) often take place at local leisure centres. One warning, though: don't use the centre as a drop off for children. Nannies should always remain on the premises and observant even when the children are technically under the supervision of others.

The Local Park

It's true, not every neighbourhood has a local park but even if you have to travel to find some green space it will be well worth the trip. Parks provide plenty of fresh air and open space for children to burn off energy and you may find that children become very imaginative when faced with the time and opportunities to create worlds of their own. Bring just a few playthings, and pack a lunch of you need to. And remember, if a child invites you to a teddy bear picnic or to venture onto their pirate ship, no adult should ever refuse. In a pinch, the back garden can provide almost as much fun as the wider surroundings of a "wild" park.

Fun at Home

Not all activities need to take place outside the home. If the weather isn't cooperating or the car is in the shop, a little imagination is all it takes to transform an average home into a place of wonder. Cooking lessons in the kitchen, movie making in the living room, a rock concert in the play room and fort building in the basement can amuse children of all ages for hours on end. Don't be worried about making a little mess either - clean up time not only teaches children to be respectful of their possessions and surroundings, but it keeps kids occupied for a while longer as well.

When there's nothing on the agenda nannies can have a terrible time trying to think of activities for children that won't be met with "But I don't want to!" Sometimes, however, this will be the answer regardless of the activity that is offered. When this happens, nannies need to make the decision themselves and a trip to the local library, leisure centre, park or some imaginative play at home should be enough to shake off the boredom blues.