My list shows my biase for parenting small children
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1) read to a child (nevermind that he can read himself already, curled up with someone is a great way to read!)
2) help a child look up anything (any idea where the condors are, or why you can't ride them like the cartoon?)
3) learn something (internet or library, cost of gas/electricity alone)
4) Sing a song or three make up words when you forget, no it doesn't have to rhyme or make sense.
5) make a 'kitchen' or 'garage' or whatever out of cardboard with kids
6) take a bath, without the kids for mom, or put them in and read a magazine/book while they keep busy.
7) go on a 'hunt' for anything, things that start with a letter for young kids, things to show fall is here (or whatever season) sets of things for any number (from only pairs, to only things with over 100 stuff)
8) Play a board game, for young kids play 'old maid' or simplified Rummy
9) call a friend or family member with the free minutes on your phone, you pay for them use them!
10) draw a picture with a kid, any idea how to make a monkey? me either, but the kids like when I try
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