That energy needs to be played out. But they don't like to play on their own. They want their mommy and daddy to play with them. And here comes the age old questions, what games can I play with my kids? Better yet, what games can I play with them at the age they are currently at?
Your kids' understanding, focus level and even speech play an integral role in what games are appropriate, fun and safe. Like, you can't play monopoly with a 3-year-old. Two minutes later, they will flip the board and eat the cash while sticking the racing car up their nose. Where are some age-appropriate games you can play with your kids:
1-3 years old
Your kids just learned to walk, but they are still a bit unsteady on their feet. Their concentration span is two minutes (maybe more if this is really a fun game and they are hooked into it). Ideas for games at this age are:
Tag - safety first, make sure that there is no sharp edge furniture around where your kids can knock their heads on. They will look back at you while running away and will not see what is in front of them before it's too late.
Ball role - play this game while sitting down on the ground with your legs stretched out wide. Then roll the ball to each other. Don't let your kid sit too far from you because they need to roll the ball back to you too.
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4-7 years old
Your kids' balance and hand-eye coordination are kicking in and starting to stabilize. This is the perfect time to teach them school sports.
Bike rides - go on an afternoon bike ride with the kids. Choose a different patch every second day to make it more adventurous. Remember, it is excellent that you gear up your kids with helmets and knee/elbow pads, but you also need to be safe. Wear a helmet!
Basketball - what better way to teach them healthy competition while working on their hand-eye coordination. Take it slow in the beginning until they get the hang of it, then let it rip. While you do want to show off a bit on your mad skills, you are not excused from getting injured. Make sure that everyone is wearing the correct basketball shoes and that there is enough grip on them. Or better yet, go Google best basketball shoes for ankle support for yourself. You are not the same age as your kids and will need the extra protection to keep playing with them.
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In the end, you have to be mindful of what your kids physical and intellectual capabilities are at their current age. That will be your guiding Y for when you figure out what games to play with the kids. Don't get frustrated if it's not the type of game that you want to play. Just hang in there. They will reach the age when they can play those games. But enjoy the current moment and make fun memories.