Life can be a beach
Even when the kids come along
BEFORE children, a day at the beach meant throwing a few necessities in a bag, leisurely swims, engrossing yourself in a book and nodding off to sleep with the sound of crashing waves.
After children, the reality is vastly different. There are multiple bags, boards, umbrellas, toys, food and drinks to cart along and when you finally arrive, exhausted, you’re immediately expected to be on lifeguard and play duty.
But with some clever planning, you can reclaim some relaxation time. Here’s how:
Work in shifts
If you’re at the beach with your partner, keep watch of the kids in shifts – 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
Dig a big hole as soon as you arrive
This is a short time investment upfront but kids love a hole. They will try to fill it, jump in it, sit in it then bury things, themselves and other people in it. “See if you can dig to China” will also buy you more time.
Take a small inflatable pool for toddlers
They can help fill it with water and you can relax without the fear they will be bowled over by a wave.
Scavenger hunt
Take an age-appropriate printed list with you and don’t forget a spare bag to put the collected items in.
Encourage new friendships
Kids make friendships quickly and easily. Point out children their own age and comment how they look like they’re having fun and you’re sure they’d love to play.
Toys and games
While buckets and spades may provide hours of entertainment for toddlers, older kids may need something a little more engaging to keep them occupied on the sand.
Frisbees and kites are always a hit but a children’s metal detector will keep them occupied for hours with the promise of hidden treasure.
Play “beach golf” by digging a hole in the sand and rolling a tennis ball into it, each person rolling from the same distance. The winner is whoever needs the fewest rolls.
Food and drinks
The key to a contented child is food and since the old saying “Don’t swim until 30 minutes after you’ve eaten or you’ll drown” is a myth, you can afford to keep them snacked up.
Avoid foods that melt easily or spoil in the heat – dried fruit, nuts, pre-made wraps or sandwiches, muesli bars and crackers work well.
Pack in separate containers in case one gets knocked in the sand.
Use the beach as artistic inspiration
Take a sketch pad and pencils and have kids draw what their day at the beach looks like, which can later be framed. They can also collect mementos from their day and use them to create art when they’re home.
For more family activities, visit kidspot.com.au