For most women, getting in touch with their inner 5-year-old boy is a challenge. The mindset and thought process of a responsible adult and rampaging little man can sometimes feel like two jigsaw puzzle pieces that just won’t fit together, no matter how hard you try. It’s easy to forget that under the rough and tumble exterior, little boys can be so much fun, and these early years of grazed knees and grubby faces are so important in shaping their future. We all want to see a boy grow up into a confident and well balanced young man, so what can you do to build his self-esteem and indulge his wild side?
If looking after boys isn’t first nature and you’re not sure what sort of activity you should be planning for them, we’ve made a checklist which all little boys aged 3-6 should enjoy with their nanny this summer:
Build a den: Preferably outside in the woods with lots of sticks, moss and mud. If inside, using sheets over tables and chairs is just as exciting, and not as dirty!
Jump in puddles: Wellington boots and waterproofs essential.
Collect minibeasts from the garden: Using a plastic container, collect creepy crawlies and research the bugs you find in a book or use the internet.
Ask questions: how many legs does it have? Does it fly? Does it sting? Worms, slugs and snails are popular with boys – the slimier the better!
Have a sword fight: Rolled up newspaper is just as fun as their plastic sword or light sabre, and safer. Set some boundaries and go for it!
Make a paper aeroplane: There are both simple and intricate designs you can available online to download. Make the activity colourful by getting out his favourite pens and paint to decorate the planes.
Have a water fight: A wonderful way to cool down in the summer, grab your water pistols and water balloons and create a battle scene with his friends.
Let him climb a tree: Not too high and be there to support him every step of the way.
Read him books and do the funny voices: Bringing books to life with characters you’ve created will stay in his memory forever.
Go for a walk in the dark: In a safe place and with a torch. Listen to the sounds of the night without fear.
Pop balloons: Boys love anything that will explode and make a loud bang.
Do a science experiment: Make an erupting volcano made from vinegar, bicarbonate of soda and red food colouring.
Toast marshmallows: If you don’t have a campfire then a candle will just about suffice. Of course, keep health and safety at the forefront of your mind.
Do gymnastics: Forward rolls, cartwheels or any form of rolling about in the garden will do.
Let him run around and shout: It’s in our nature to keep speed and volume down to a minimum but sometimes boys just need to let it out. Give him the space to be loud.
With half term summer holidays looming in the distance, use this list to fill your days with fun, boisterous activity. You may find that feisty girls enjoy these just as much as their brothers. What are your favourite activities do to with your charges? We’d love to hear from you, so leave us some of your top tips on our Facebook page.