Pokémon Go has become a global phenomenon, with people of all ages—from children to adults—venturing into parks and streets, all in pursuit of digital creatures. While the fad may seem fleeting, if your kids are hooked on this augmented reality game, here are some clever strategies to turn their obsession into a win for you!
1. Ditch the Crafts for Adventures
Forget about messy DIY projects when you can enjoy a leisurely stroll with your kids in your neighborhood. A walk outdoors beats glitter and glue any day!
2. Set New Ground Rules
Establish a rule that Pokémon hunting is off-limits until chores like dishwashing and laundry are finished. A little gratitude in the form of a hug wouldn’t hurt either!
3. Transform Room Cleanup into a Game
If your kids decide to search for Pokémon in their messy rooms, lock the door until they tidy up. Let’s capture some cleanliness along with those critters!
4. Make Grocery Shopping Fun
While you’re at the grocery store, challenge them to find Pokémon in the produce section and pick out a veggie they’ll actually eat. If they can hunt down a Pikachu, they can surely spot a broccoli!
5. Encourage Library Visits
Remind them that the library is not just a Pokémon Stop; it’s also a treasure trove of books. They can read while their phones recharge after their hunting escapades.
6. Use Incentives for Writing
If your kids insist on visiting the post office because it’s a Pokémon gym, tell them they can go after they write those long-overdue thank-you notes from last Christmas.
7. Plan Family Hikes
That nature hike you’ve been wanting to do can finally happen. Who knows what rare Pokémon might be hiding in the woods? Just don’t mention the possibility of no cell service.
8. Make Family Visits Enjoyable
Getting them to visit Aunt Carla should be easier now that there are Pokémon to discover in her backyard. Sure, it smells a bit musty, but adventure awaits!
9. Inspire Weekend Road Trips
Road trips are a great way to explore and play the license plate game in a new way. How about a round of Twenty Questions while you’re at it?
No matter how much you may not understand the game, these strategies can help you enjoy quality time with your kids while also getting them to pitch in around the house. So gear up for some family fun—and watch out for those lamp posts!
For even more tips on navigating parenting or family activities, check out our other posts, including one on home insemination kits which can be found at Make a Mom and this excellent resource about pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
Pokémon Go can be a tool for parents to encourage outdoor activity, responsibility, and family bonding. By setting rules and creating fun challenges, you can make the game work for you while enjoying quality time with your kids.