When you have only one TV and 5 kids then it is like “Right how do we make sure that all get a chance to watch what they want?” well, allocate time for each child on different days and create a TV planner on your fridge on on the living room table, for them to write down what programmes they like and want to watch. If there is one they all like then its right lets put it on, but if they have others that not everyone does like then create a TV schedule for each child, and if you have Sky or Now TV for example add the programme in a timer, or saved to record so it goes into the planner and allow them time in the week for them to watch that show, and do the same for all kids.
It is good to have kids play board games as they are a great way of teaching the to play together and form relationships and it good bonding time between you and then being the parent and with their siblings.
When it comes to toys find ones that can be easily shared like a talking cuddly toy, and you can sit with them and play, and this way you are giving yourself time with them, and letting them both you attention, or skipping. I loved it when we would do skipping and it would be a whoe load of us joining in.
Play a sport like volley ball, badminton or football, anything that doesn’t leave another child out. Then tthere are toys that is meant for one person to use at a time and what I would do is have a timer so each child has 15 to 20 minutes to play with that toy, and then they have to pass it ti the other chlld and given them an alternative toy, each so they are not left sitting there and swap over once the 20 minutes is up.
When it comes to each child and having one to one time, is just important and we can’t with all our powers as humans, separate ourselves physically so I would allow each child a day or just an hour or your time with just them and schedule this and let each child know together of when they will have one to one with each parent and have then choose itens of a list which you can work with them to write, and of what they wish to do.
Have a day out with each child having one to one and have them choose some activities they would like to do outside aswell as indoors and arrange it. Even if it is to have their haircut or some retail therapy. Just have that time and make it the same amount for each child in your family.
Its all about sharing and caring, and being free for each child and make them known that they are just as important as the other children you have in your household.
Many thanks for reading,
Carrie L.M X
The parenting adventures 