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Waiting Games for Kids and Playful Parents |
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by jenlemen  (October 2006) (rank 19th) |
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Nothing puts the stress through the roof like having to keep a little person occupied while annoyed onlookers huff and puff. Here are a few of my favorite games to play with kids when we have to wait.
- One, two, three, four, I declare a thumb war.
See who can keep their thumb on top while joining right hands in a combined fist. Kids love it all the more when you turn on your inner tricky-trickster and say, "Look over there--I see a baby kitten!" Part of the fun is in the subterfuge.
- I spy with my little eye. Even the smallest observers will like to be the one holding this secret while everyone else tries to guess. Be patient when your little one picks the biggest (or most abstract) objects in this old favorite.
- Wish I may, wish I might. When we're stuck in traffic, our kids love to play the I wish game. Tears and complaining fall away as soon as I say, "I wish this car was a giant giraffe and that we were walking past all these cars from our perch between her cute little ears." Take turns coming up with outlandish ways you could get to your final destination. Your kids will be delighted.
- Twenty questions. My second grader reminded me of this tried and true favorite. Vegetable, animal or mineral? Take turns guessing what moms thinking and learn how to ask a yes or no question. We also have a handheld digital version of this game that my kids like to bring along when they know that waiting is the name of the game.
What are your family favorites when it's hurry up and wait? Your suggestions welcome in the comments below.
