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Do you ever look at your kids and wonder why, in a house full of toys, they can't seem to find anything to do? Do you find yourself battling against screen time, but then feel out of ideas for how to get your kid engaged with something else? Well, you’re going to love this interview with Beth!
Beth is the creator of the popular Instagram account, @DayswithGrey. She's a 13-year veteran teacher with a Master’s in teaching reading who promotes play-based learning for young kids. She has tons of easy, fun, and really engaging activities for kids – that also give parents a break!
During our chat, I got to get her professional insight on all kinds of creative parenting topics – including how to get your kid to open up about their school day, and balancing screen time with their routines. You’re going to want to stick around and get the goods on what Beth shared so you can banish bored kid syndrome for good!
>>Watch this blog on my Awesome Little Sleepers YouTube channel! 👇
We’re at the start of a new school year. What are some things you do to keep your family organized in terms of getting ready for school?
I am a huge fan of checklists. I made a Canva template for items like the backpack, check. Water bottle filled, check. Sneakers, because I don't need anyone to be like, ‘Where's my shoe?’ at 6:40 in the morning.
This has been life-changing! I heard from so many followers that they also use this template, and it's just like night and day, being smooth to get ready to go that morning.
When we talk about the younger ages, around three, four, and five, we might think of just three main things we need to get done. And you can make the list together, because it makes them more part of the process, especially in those early years when they're so independent.
It’s not just about giving your child a list and expecting them to follow it, right?
Exactly, it's not as simple as just handing them a list. The first few weeks, it’s about walking with them, making it a fun experience. For example, you could say, “Is your shirt in your underwear drawer? Let’s check!” It’s less exhausting to approach it playfully than to ask the same question 20 times. It’s about helping them understand how to use the checklist, guiding them step by step.
You mentioned routines and how they help kids manage their downtime. Can you elaborate on how routines have helped your own kids not be bored kids?
Yes, routines are so helpful. Even with older kids who might seem reluctant to help out, they know the expectations. My kids, at 10, 9, and 7, still play with magnetic tiles, build train tracks, and read a lot during their downtime. These routines have been part of their lives since they were little, so they don’t get bored or wonder what to do—they know what’s expected.
Do you think parents today are more aware of teaching life and time management skills compared to when we were kids?
Yes, absolutely. Growing up, I didn’t really have anyone teach me how to organize my life. If someone had helped me with those skills, like how to manage my homework, I probably would have handed it in more often. Now, I think parents are more aware and focused on teaching these essential skills to their children.
How do you balance screen time in your kids’ routines?
Oh, they love screens—Nintendo is their number one! But they know the routine. They understand that screens are only for weekends or specific times on school days. Having that system in place gives them structure and helps them manage their time better.
Getting kids to open up about their day can be tough. You’ve shared some creative ways to do this. Can you tell us more about them?
Yes, one strategy is to rephrase “How was your day?” Yesterday, for example, I told my first grader I had a really long, hard day, and he naturally responded, “I had a hard day, too.” That opened up the conversation in a way that asking directly wouldn’t have. I also like to keep quiet and let them open up in their own time, especially when I can tell something is off.
So it’s about finding more creative ways to engage with them, rather than sticking to traditional questions?
Exactly. I have a list on Instagram called “Nine Other Ways to Ask How Was Your Day.” Sometimes, not asking anything at all works best. For instance, when I pick up my middle child, I just leave the radio off and wait for him to talk if he feels like it. Kids need time to decompress too, and silence can be a great way to let them do that.
You’ve also mentioned “Would You Rather” questions as a fun way to get kids talking. Can you share more about that?
Yes, I love using “Would You Rather” questions, like “Would you rather have a teacher with a magic wand or eat lunch on a magic carpet?” It’s fun, silly, and gets them talking in a more relaxed way. It’s much better than the usual, “What’s your teacher’s name?” or “Are you excited for school?”
Can you share your bedtime tip for parents who struggle with kids getting out of bed after bedtime?
I like to use a technique called the "Tuck In Ticket." You give your child a small ticket that they can use to get one final tuck-in for the night. After they use it, they know that’s it—no more requests for water or extra hugs. It helps set a boundary while still allowing them that one last interaction. The key is consistency. If you notice some separation anxiety due to the tight evening schedule, having that one more tuck-in can help ease the transition. But be careful to ensure it doesn’t lead to bedtime routines getting out of control.
Do you have any advice on setting the stage for bedtime?
Yes! About 30 minutes before bed, I start dimming the lights to help create a calm atmosphere. This can make a big difference in getting kids into the mindset for sleep.
It has been so wonderful talking to you, Beth. Thank you. Where can people find more of your resources?
You can find me at @DayswithGrey, on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and of course on my blog, dayswithgrey.com. I also offer seasonal activity cards for parents, which are great for indoor activities as we head into fall and winter. These cards come with conversation starters, materials lists, and tips for making the activities more engaging. You can order them as physical cards, a PDF, or both!
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