Bond With Your Kids This School Holidays

This school holidays, spend some down-time with your children through the pursuit of simple pleasures, say experts.

'Term time can often involve a hectic schedule of dropping off, picking up and after school activities, with little time to draw breath.  Children and parents can all benefit from the change-of-pace that school holidays offer, with the chance to take some time out, re-charge and re-connect," says Ms Jocelyn Brewer, child psychologist.

Jocelyn says that over-scheduling and an over-reliance on technology such as the computer, tablets, or television, can all fuel this sense of -disconnect and busyiness' that can distract us from spending mindful, quality time with our children.

'Even though many of us are working during school holidays, the school holidays offer a great opportunity to turn off the television and computer and spend some one-on-one time with your children.  Getting back to basics will help re-connect," says Jocelyn.

Jocelyn says back to basics activities can include simply talking to them sharing stories, spending time in nature (especially during autumn and before the winter weather sets in), visit local parks, baking or cooking some healthy food.

'Children connect with their siblings and parents through play.  Calming craft activities that involve cutting, glueing, sticking and colouring can be totally absorbing and are a great way to enjoy family time together," she says.

Jocelyn points out that many children will share information, thoughts and feelings whilst absorbed in creative and craft activities and this provides an opportunity to enjoy a relaxed dialgoue that can help you communicate and connect with your children.

'From designing and flying paperplanes through targets to creating collages with autumn leaves, kids creativity is fostered when there is space for some screen-free time and even a little bit of boredom!"

Jocelyn recommends looking on-line or in your local newsagency for inspiring craft activities and affordable equipment such as glue, scissors, paper and coloured pens. 

"Kids love the Frixion range of erasable pens and markers because they can easily rub out any mistakes without having to start all over again. They are fun to use and come in a wide choice of colours," she says.

For some fabulous Easter craft activities to download, check out the Pilot Pen website: www.pilotpen.com.au