Surviving the Night: Fun Family Activities During Load Shedding

The rumble of the electricity cutting out, the house suddenly enveloped in silence, and the fading daylight replaced by shadows may be familiar scenarios for many South African families grappling with load shedding. But who says power outages have to be a time of boredom or frustration? Let’s explore creative ways to turn these moments into opportunities for family bonding and fun.

Rediscovering Traditional Pastimes

Long before the advent of smartphones and streaming platforms, families had their ways of spending quality time together. Load shedding gives us the chance to revisit these traditions.

1. Board Games by Candlelight

Whether it’s a strategic game of chess or a thrilling round of Monopoly, board games offer hours of entertainment. They encourage family members to interact, strategize, and have a good laugh. Make sure to keep a stock of candles and a few favourite board games handy for those electricity-free evenings.

2. Storytelling Time

Load shedding provides the perfect setting for a storytelling session. Parents can share childhood tales, or everyone can participate in creating an imaginative story. This not only develops creativity but also strengthens family bonds.

Making the Most of Outdoor Spaces

Who said that night-time activities are restricted to indoors? Depending on the season and weather, the outdoors can provide a plethora of opportunities for family fun.

1. Stargazing

The absence of electric lights means less light pollution, allowing the beauty of the night sky to shine through. Lay down some blankets, bring out a few snacks, and try identifying different constellations. It’s a calming and educational way to spend an evening.

2. Campfire and Barbecue

If you have a backyard, why not set up a small campfire or barbecue? Grilling marshmallows or making traditional South African braai could be a fun and delicious way to pass the time. It’s an opportunity to teach kids some cooking skills and enjoy a different kind of family meal together.

Embracing Quiet Moments

In our fast-paced digital world, moments of quiet and rest can be rare. Load shedding can provide an opportunity to embrace these moments.

1. Meditation or Yoga

Practicing mindfulness or yoga in a quiet, dimly lit room can be a relaxing and restorative experience. It’s a way for the family to destress and reconnect with themselves.

2. Journaling

Encourage each family member to write about their day or doodle in a journal. This activity can foster creativity and provide a valuable outlet for expressing thoughts and emotions.

Learning and Growing Together

Who said learning can only happen with electricity? There are countless ways to engage your family in educational activities during load shedding.

1. Book Club

Start a family book club where everyone reads the same book and discusses it. This practice encourages a love for reading and stimulates intellectual conversations.

2. DIY Projects

Get hands-on with DIY projects that don’t require electricity – from building a birdhouse to knitting a scarf. These activities promote problem-solving skills and can be a rewarding way to spend time together.

Load shedding may plunge our homes into darkness, but it doesn’t have to darken our moods. With a little creativity and preparation, these periods can be transformed into cherished family time. Instead of viewing load shedding as an inconvenience, let’s see it as a reminder to slow down, connect with loved ones, and enjoy the simpler things in life.