Before I had children I started inviting my two nieces to visit with me for a week in the summer. I now have two boys ages two and half and a six month old. My oldest niece is now 16 and would rather stay home where she can see her friends and boyfriend everyday. Which I'm not bothered by. Her younger sister is 13 and wanted to come for a week so she's here now. The problem is I knew with two small children I wouldn't be able to do many activities that she would find intresting. The original plan was she was going to come with her best friend and that way if they got bored I could easily drop them off together at the movies or the mall... However her friend couldn't make it at the last minute. My niece is very well mannered so she wouldn't say she is bored but how intresting can it be hanging around the house with me and two little ones? Anyway what I'm looking for is does anyone have any suggestions of what I can do with a 13, 2.5 and a six month old?
I see your in Scarborough, how about taking then to York's Wild Kingdom. Or Old Orchard for the day.
What would she be doing if she were at home? My point is that you may be putting too much pressure on yourself.
Is she into "girly" stuff? Why don't you guys experiment with make-up, or declutter your closet (and have her try on your wedding dress LOL!). Do you have photos with her in them? Perhaps flip through those too. Does she like the library? Maybe go and get some great books to read together. Or have her read to you while you take care of your babies.
I also like the other moms' suggestions re: the water park and going out after your husband gets home (great idea if it's possible).
Good luck - you are a sweet aunt! :)
Awwww...how nice of you to want to make your niece's week fun!
Can they all go to a pool? Waterpark? I know you'd need to be right there with the little ones but she might be able to branch off a little on her own.
Park/playground? Local childrens theater? Do you have friends with daughters her age? They could go to a movie together. Any local festivals, concerts? Maybe after your husband gets home you & she could go to the mall or get nails done O. evening?
don't knock yourself! You have the honor of her presence.....so that means she wanted to come! All of the other posters had good ideas. I would just take a deep breath & relax. Try to go somewhere each day, make it fun for her....& your little ones will just be happy being "out". Take lots of photos....or better yet - give her the camera & let her document her week with you. A visit to a craft store for scrapbooking supplies would be a great weeklong project....one which she'll enjoy for years to come! Peace.
It depends a lot on your niece and her likes....She may be very happy to play with the little ones and practice being a babysitter, I would have at 13. Make her feel appreciated for helping you with the little ones, and then when your hubby is home maybe the two of you can sneak off to go shopping or to a movie for some girl time! It is nice for a girl her age to talk to an adult woman other than her Mom. Have fun!
