Lines are an unfortunate part of life when taking part in fun activities. And even when the end of the line is something that the kids are excited for (seeing their favorite characters, getting fun swag in the exhibit hall, etc), it can still be tough work for many kids.
If you’re planning to attend the next San Diego Comic-Con, particularly if it will be your first time, you might be wondering about how to keep your kids occupied and keep those waiting times a little more pleasant.
While not everything at Comic-Con will have a line, don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a few lines throughout your attendance. Luckily there are plenty of ways to keep kids occupied in Comic-Con lines, so you don’t have a struggle. Look below at 6 ways to keep kids occupied in Comic-Con lines so you can make your time more enjoyable and fun for everyone.
1. Keep Simple To Eat Snacks On Hand
One of the quickest ways for a line wait to go downhill is for a kiddo to get hungry. Keep simple to eat snacks on hand so kids can stay fueled while waiting in line. The trick here is to give them a snack that is a tad time consuming as well. Some ideas include peel and eat fruit ropes or fruit snacks, chips and salsa snack packs, or other snacks that require a little dipping/pulling to eat. It will keep them full and busy.
2. Download Apps
Download apps on your phone and take advantage of the park wifi when waiting in long lines. This way kids can play games or watch their favorite cartoons while they wait. With so many free apps out there, you can download a few and have plenty for them to pick from.
3. Keep Them Cool and Hydrated
Keep kids from getting cranky in line by keeping them cool and hydrated. This is especially important if the line is outdoors. Carry a water bottle for them or even a cold pack to keep on their skin. Be sure to pack plenty of sunblock and even consider a small spray bottle of water so they can mist themselves. This way, they stay cool and comfortable while waiting.
4. Try Games of Skill
Head to the dollar store and buy some small games of skill. You will find small handheld toys and puzzles
perfect for playing with while waiting in line. This way kids stay occupied, and should a toy get lost you only spent a buck on it. Perfect!
5. Pack Their Own Chair or Seat
Kids sometimes need to take a load off when waiting in line. Bring a small foldable chair, seat, or even a blanket or towel so they can sit down for a few minutes if they need to.
6. Stopwatch Play
Kids will love playing with a stopwatch and keeping track of how long you have been in line. You can also let them use the stopwatch on your phone or give them a small sand timer. Ask them to keep track of how long you are in each line so you can see which one wins. They will love this contest!
7. Take Regular Line Breaks
If you are standing in line with another adult, trade off taking line breaks with the kids every 20-30 minutes or so. One of you can take a short walk with the kids, while the other person holds the spot in the line.
8. Coloring
If your child loves to color, be sure to bring coloring books. You can even print out coloring sheets before you go to Comic-Con. We have lots of free printables coloring sheets and activity pages that will keep the kids occupied.
9. On-Site Child Care
If the activity you are interested in isn’t for your child, but involves long lines, consider using the on-site childcare that KiddieCorp provides at San Diego Comic-Con. There is a fee involved, but this can be great fun for your child and make things even easier on you.
Consider these ways to keep kids occupied in Comic-Con lines and see how waiting in line doesn’t need to be a nightmare!
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