A coastal vacay is never complete without hitting the sandy white beaches and stealing a swim in aqua blue waters.
Despite the precautions you must take, there are many ways in which they can have fun and enjoy the beach too. Should you be thinking of organizing a beach day, you need to dig deep for some creativity in order to come up with the right combination of activities.
Here are a few suggestions you can use when planning a fun beach day for your little ones.
1. Beach ball games
Purchase a simple beach ball for your kids to play with. Younger kids can throw the ball around, pass it to each other or even play with the ball in shallow waters. The fact that a beach ball can keep your kids entertained in versatile ways saves you money and space as you pack your beach essentials for the day. Beach volleyball is also another great ball game that your older kids, especially, can enjoy.
2. Bubble blowing
Kids are easily entertained by this simple game. Bubble blowing toys are readily available in many supermarkets and are relatively inexpensive. Your kids can chase the bubbles around and be blown away by the ‘magic.’ The windy beaches provide a great environment for the bubbles to form and your kids will be occupied for a long time.
3. Kiddie pool
This is a great way to ensure your toddlers don’t get bored at the beach. Purchase a small kiddie pool found in supermarkets or online shops and fill it with some seawater to create a safe play area for them.
4. Attending fun days and kids events
Be on the lookout for kid’s events that are being hosted at a beach near you. This will create room for them to socialize and make friends. There is also a high chance your kids will get to enjoy face painting, camel and horse riding as well as competitive games. Your kids will definitely live to remember that day.
5. The classic kite
This has been a beach tradition for many years and continues to live on. As much as kids of today are more engulfed in their phones and other forms of technology, many still enjoy the art of flying kites. Kites are usually easily available in supermarkets and are also sold by hawkers in the streets for as little as Sh300.
6. Beach art
Carry art supplies for your kids to use for this activity. Some of the artistic activities for them include painting the scenery, drawing on shells as well as making simple jewellery from shells. This is a great way for them to explore their creative side while having fun.
7. Jet skiing
Older kids may not be easily impressed with some of these classic beach activities they have been taking part in over the years. Organizing for Jet Ski rides can ensure that they are not feeling left out. Get instructors at the beach to take them for a ride and ensure their safety.
8. Boat rides
This is an activity both you and the kids can enjoy. Hire a guide and a boat for a certain amount of time to explore the seas. The guides usually include other activities such as snorkelling in the package. Your kids will enjoy swimming and viewing the fish during the rides. You will also be able to visit small islands which the whole family can enjoy.
9. Treasure hunts
This is a great way to keep kids entertained at the beach. Organize for a simple scavenger hunt where you hide shells, leaves or any other item for them to find. Promising a prize for the child who finds the most items will ensure that they create a healthy competitive spirit. Nothing motivates kids more than prizes.
10. Cleaning up the beach
At this age of global environmental awareness, it is important to teach your kids that it is also cool to take care of the environment. Get the right safety gear such as gloves for them to use as they collect trash on the beach. The best way is to set an example and be actively involved in the cleaning process as well.