Spring is such an exciting time of year! As it rolls in, it brings changes in weather, longer days, new growth and a desire to start outdoor activities. It can be fun exploring these changes, especially getting our children involved in a variety of seasonal sports. However, this can be a bit challenging for parents of multiple children of differing ages.

I have experienced this challenge. My daughter enjoyed playing softball and soccer, and her two younger siblings came along. As we tried to watch games and practices, our boys would become overwhelmed with boredom and were ready to run amok. You may have seen that child who runs out in the middle of the field, stopping everything, and the mom who gives chase, grabs the child, red-faced with embarrassment as she takes him back to the bleachers. That was me and my son during a few of my daughter’s games. I learned the hard way the importance of being prepared with a bag of distractions and some creativity. Those things happen, but my experience does not have to be yours. I have learned that sporting events can be a pleasant, non-stressful experience with a little preplanning.

First and foremost, snacks are vital! Always be prepared with some of your children’s favorites. This helps tremendously when boredom or hunger sets in and frustrated behaviors arise. I suggest having a combination of fruits, veggies, cheeses and crackers. Avoid the high sugar foods and bring a bottle of water for each kid.

Second to food are some portable activities. These will be key to keeping little hands and minds busy. Making sure they are items that can easily be packed and carried. I know it’s tempting, with all our modern technology, to keep your children busy with videos or games. But there are other ways to keep them entertained and distracted, that also encourage creativity and developmental growth. Hands-on activities that won’t distract the players could include a notebook with crayons and washable markers, a container or two of playdough (store bought or homemade) with a plate to build on, some Legos for building and stacking, favorite books and puzzles, even some action figures or familiar toys from home.

If you can sit in an area where your children are on the ground, you could pack some items to play in the dirt or grass, such as shovels, cups and little cars. I would suggest keeping these in a plastic baggie to help keep your travel bag clean. Recycled materials are another good option: popsicle sticks, water bottles, plastic cups, lids and small cardboard boxes — if they get dirty they can be disposed of at the end of the event. However, if your little one is proud of their creation, you could take it home to decorate, or let them take a picture of it to keep “forever.” If your child is old enough to help pack, allow them to help choose some of the items. They are more likely to use them and get excited about going.

Sometimes, your little one might just want to do what their older sibling is doing. If there is a little space away from the other spectators, you might provide them with their own supplies to play on the sidelines, and interact with them, while still watching your older child play. This can help the younger sibling feel as though they are part of the event.

Be sure to explain that big sister or brother has to play with their team, and someday they will be able to join, but for now they can play with you.

Along with food and activities, I would suggest having a small container of wipes. Children have fun getting dirty, whether snacking or playing on the ground. Wipes can help keep hands clean for eating and when play has finished.

It is so important for your little athletes, and for you, to be as present as possible for their events. Hopefully these suggestions can inspire ways to individualize activities for your younger children, finding things to hold their interest and help make the time more enjoyable for everyone.