Summer is officially upon us, however if you live in the Northeast like I do, it certainly does not feel like it!  When you think summer, it’s only natural to think of being outdoors, running, playing, swimming, loading up on sunscreen, right?  It’s been raining here for weeks, and the sun has made but only a few cameo appearances.  Couple that with school being out, and in sets panic!  It’s hard enough trying to think of ways to entertain your children for an entire summer, but when you are stuck inside it makes it even more challenging.  Enter PBS Kids Sprout.

I am not a huge fan of sitting my kids in front of a tv, in fact, during any given day their television viewing is quite limited.  Often I will record certain favorites my kids like to watch, to have access to them during “show time”.  Several of the shows they enjoy are broadcast on Sprout, which has introduced me to a great website Sprout Online (you didn’t think this jem was going to be all about sitting your kids in front of a tv when you are stuck inside, did you – as appealing as that may sound at times, I know!)

Sprout Online has a nice variety of activities for you and your child.  Everything from games and activities, crafts and coloring, even recipes you can make with your children, are all available on this site. I try to do one craft daily with my kids, and since they are 3 years apart in age, it’s easy to modify them to fit their level.  The rainsticks we recently made, you know, in honor of all the rain, were a huge hit!  The directions are all online, along with templates when needed, and many of the activities also feature some of your children’s favorite characters – Thomas, Elmo, even the Wiggles are coming to Sprout soon.  Oh, can you hear the excitement in my voice????

You don’t need to sit the kids in front of the tv to enjoy their favorite fictional friends.  Grab your little “sproutlet” and get creative!  And while you’re there, tap into the resources on Sprout for Parents!  A little somethin’ somethin’ for everyone!

Hope the sun shines where you are this week, if not outside, make it shine inside.

Have a great week!