Archive for September, 2009
Everyone seems to have a lucky number. For many, the number seven will suffice because it already has a lucky connotation. You can bet your bottom dollar that no one in their right mind would choose 13. I’ve noticed that many hotels and even cruise ships don’t have a 13th floor; the elevator goes straight from 12 to 14. Whether it’s something to bet on or intended to be a sign of coincidence, you could ask anyone what number they prefer and I’m sure it wouldn’t take them more than a few seconds to give you a definite answer.
My lucky number is six. It’s not a jersey number or the number of men I dated before I met my husband. It dates back all the way to my childhood when I was about six or seven years old. It was Easter and my family had gone to our neighborhood Easter egg hunt. Before the games began the announcer had mentioned that there were several eggs with special marking that indicated a prize. I found an orange egg marked by the number six and won a stuffed animal. And what became even more special about the number is that this stuffed animal – a bunny in a purple suit – became my favorite stuffed animal of all time.
It seems that children have the most fleeting attention spans in the world, and it’s hard to keep any child entertained by one object or activity for long. That’s why every parent and babysitter needs an arsenal of toys and activities to have on hand at all times to prevent boredom. Especially on rainy days when outside play is impossible, kids need constant stimulation. It’s a good idea to have imagination-inspiring toys and activities prepared in addition to regular toys.
Crafts are always a good way to go, but kids can have endless fun putting on a puppet show using hand puppets. Let each child choose a hand puppet and devise characters, a plot, dialogue and props. Have them practice their show, and then organize the rest of the family to watch the final show. Serve snacks and drinks for a refreshing treat afterward! Encourage the kids to come up with different stories every week to keep their imaginations running.