How to Entertain a Child During a Power Outage

Children today are accustomed to being entertained through electronic outlets. Power outages are difficult enough on adults, but children struggle even more when there is no electricity. When the activities kids prefer are not available; creativity is required to keep you sane and them busy. Take a lesson from years past to keep kids busy while power is unavailable. Welcome the chance for the time with no television, no game boys and few distractions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Sense of humor
• Deck of cards
• Board games
• Flashlight

1. Grab the flashlights. Flashlights are multipurpose tools. As the flashlight lights a room, a scared child calms down. Once the situation is under control, place the flashlight on a table and help your child to make shadows on the wall. If you have open spaces that are safe to navigate, play flashlight tag or hide and seek.
2. Tell stories. Share stories from your childhood; give your children the chance to experience life through your eyes. Talk about favorite events in your family. Make up silly stories or share tall tales. Ask your child questions that you have been meaning to
3. Have a laugh. Tell knock-knock jokes and any other joke that comes to mind. Small children love the chance to tell jokes. Even if the jokes aren’t funny, the laughter is contagious.
4. Pull out the cards and board games. Kids that are used to playing solitaire on a computer screen will enjoy the novelty of playing the game with a real deck of cards. Play Monopoly, checkers or dominoes. Rarely do families take the time to play these games. Pass the time and enjoy each others company while the family has some simple fun.
5. Toast some marshmallows over a candle, grab some chocolate and graham crackers then make s’mores. With a parent supervising, this activity will keep kids busy and fill their tummy.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't allow children to use open flames unsupervised.