Just when you thought that your kids had outgrown this irritating phase, you hear it…”I’m bored.”
Despite the fact that your kid is a tween (9-12 years old) the “I’m bored” mantra still persists. Honestly, they would totally play online or watch television all day long…but that’s no way to spend summer vacation. So, put down the devices and bring out the “I’m not bored” jar – filled with activities for tweens.
I first created a family “I’m Not bored” jar way back in 2011. My kids were 5 and 7 years old and my blog was brand new. At the time, the nagging was too much for me to handle – I needed quick and simple activities to keep my kids entertained. So I created an “I’m Not Bored Jar”, filled with crafts and activities to inspire my kids. This time around the activities inside the jar are a little more challenging and will totally engage your tween-aged kid.
I’m Not Bored Jar Activities for Tweens
Grab a large mason jar. This will be the jar you use. If you don’t have a mason jar, use whatever lidded jar you have. 
Print off the I’m Not Bored Jar activities and labels. Cut out and tape the label to the top and front of the jar.
Cut the activities into individual strips. Fold them up and place them inside the jar. The activities range from simple household tasks, STEM activities, outdoor activities, art projects to creative activities.
Place the jar in an easily accessible location – you want the kids to have easy access to the jar.
There are a couple of different ways to use the I’m Not Bored Jar activities. First, the activities can be used to plan your summer holidays. Pick a different activity for every day of vacation. Alternately, keep the activity jar for those moments when the “I’m Bored” whine takes over. Simply hand the I’m Bored Jar over and let your kids pick out an engaging activity to try. 
A few of the activities you will find inside the jar:
- create a scavenger hunt
- Transform a cardboard box into a house, or car, or whatever you want
- Build an awesome fort, inside or outside
- Research an animal, planet or country
- Build a bridge that can support a tennis ball
- Plan a family movie night, complete with movie and menu
- Use a large piece of paper to draw a map of your neighbourhood
- Create a new language – create a dictionary of terms
- Create an awesome obstacle course
- Make an original board game
- Create a dance or write a play
- Make your own comic book – superheroes, fairies or whatever you like
These are just a few of the activities you will find in the I’m Not Bored Jar free printable. Feel free to add your own ideas to the jar. What activities or projects would you add?
