Restaurant and waiting Games

It can be difficult to entertain kids during a long ride, and it's equally difficult to entertain in a restaurant. Over time I have put together a list to keep young and old alike busy.

1. Tic Tac Toe: Using straws or knives to create the board, different color sugar packets can be used for playing pieces.

2. I Spy:This is a game we play often. OFTEN! In the car, at the Dr.'s, everywhere. Even some places where I'm not sure why we are playing it; usually down a long road with nothing but green trees and black roads. For whatever reason, the kids don't seem to mind.

3. Dot Squares: I don't think I have this name right, but it can be jotted down just about anywhere: tablecloth (paper of course), paper napkins, back of place-mat. Anywhere you can find a clear spot. You can play multiple children at the same time. Here's a printable sheet from EprintableCalendars.com

4. Pipe Cleaners : Ok, so this isn't really a game, and you do need to bring these in with you. But what a fun way to keep busy! Well worth picking up a pack from the local dollar store. MomsMinivan has some cute ideas to get the creative juices floating!

5. Cootie Catcher: Remember the fun with this one? With a few simple folds, a new game can had with just a simple piece of paper. You can go the traditional route and put in silly fortunes: you will have 6 kids or you first house will be a castle, or maybe some of the ideas on the inside could be an activity to do something while sitting at the table such as make a silly face, say something nice to a sibling, build a building out of five items from table, find something green, etc. The ideas are endless! Forgotten how to make a cootie catcher? Check this one out at WikiHow.

6. Table Top Shop: Looking for something educational? Pull out your coins and mark the items on the table with prices. The younger kids can add up their coins to "purchase" one item at the table, and older kids can add several items together for a final price. Good for counting skills and it entertains all at the same time!

7. Straw worms: Smoosh (technical term!) up the straw wrapper and add a drop or two of water and watch your worm grow!

8. Pictionary: This is always a blast for my kids, as I cannot hardly draw a stick figure and rarely win. We occasionally divide into teams, parents against the kids is always fun.

9.Family Draw: This is also a favorite among my crew. One kid starts drawing and the next adds a little bit more. Even the little one can play as only a line or two needs to be added. Sometimes we add a theme, sometimes it's a free for all!

10.Check with the restaurant: Some restaurants have built in kid fun. Carraba's will bring out dough to play with. Bucca Di Beppo has a "kitchen table" (reserve ahead) that puts you right in the middle of the kitchen action. Uno Pizza lets kids decorate their own pizza. Know about others? Let me know!

Linking up to:
http://www.notjustahousewife.net/