Look, we all love our kids.

We love their laugh, their hugs, the patter of their little feet and the way they smile. We can even overlook the crayon scribbling on the wall or trying to remove slime (seriously – WHO made that a thing?) out of our newly washed carpets.

But, let’s face it, when school holidays roll around and they’re at home for days on end, we realise that our little angels can really be Chucky. Well, at least a snack eating, Wi-Fi hogging, chaos inducing 2025 version of Chucky. But no less dangerous.

Kids are already expensive (we had to take out a mortgage just to afford Formula). You can’t afford to buy Data every two days just because Thatho and Werabile are streaming “Ms Rachel” in 4K Ultra HD on an endless loop. And, we can’t exactly say “go play outside” when outside has decided to do its best North Pole impression.

So, what now? Get a call from Childline, or figure something out? Thankfully, we’ve got you – here’s our Hypa Guide to keeping kids busy without wasting Data:

1. Offline Games That Aren’t Boring

Yes, they exist. And no, they don’t involve your phone.

  • Treasure Hunt: Hide household items and give them clues. Winner gets a sweet or to choose dinner.
  • The Household Olympics: Invent challenges. Do spoon and egg races. Even try the famous “who can keep silent the longest” race (trust – it works WONDERS).
  • Pretend Play: Give them old clothes, pots, and empty boxes (empty boxes are the one – thanks Takealot for your excessive packaging). Boom—instant kitchen, pirate ship, or “shop” with made-up money.

Kids have imagination. You just need to spark it.

2. DIY Craft Station (Using What You Already Have)

You don’t need to buy glitter and fancy paper. One CNA round alone is the price of a 5 Bedroom in Clifton. Use what’s lying around:

  • Toilet rolls? Make binoculars.
  • Cardboard boxes? Spaceship time.
  • Old magazines? Let them make “vision boards” or a collage about their “dream pet” (even if it’s a unicorn).

Pro tip: Put everything in a container and call it “The Creativity Box.” Instant excitement.

3. The Airtime-Saving Movie Hack

You don’t need to stream every time. Download shows or movies on your Uncapped Hypa Home Wi-Fi and save them for “emergency boredom situations.”

Netflix, YouTube Premium and even Showmax let you download content. Just make sure the device is charged and in Airplane Mode to stop them from sneaking online.

4. Make Them Your Little Helpers (Even if it Slows You Down)

Kids love feeling “grown up”.

  • Let them help make lunch (just wash hands. Often. And then wash again).
  • Give them a small cleaning task (like sweeping ONE corner of the room – keep it contained).
  • Make them “boss” of folding socks or organising the spice rack.

Nothing like a little child labour to make everyone happy. Just ask Shein (too far?).

5. Reading… the Fun Kind

Books are free from data use, and no, it doesn’t have to be Shakespeare. Comics, magazines, even joke books count. And if your kid can’t read yet, storytime with funny voices will make you a legend.

Bonus: Some bookshops and libraries have second-hand books for next to nothing. Or, even better, libraries allow you to borrow books and return them once you’re done (outdated, but who would’ve thought?).

6. Use That Hypa Wi-Fi Smartly

Let’s be real: you will give them screen time (it’s the parental version of a panic button). But with Hypa Wi-Fi, you’ve got more control.

You don’t need to ban screens—just own them like a boss.

Sometimes, letting your kids get bored forces them to come up with their own fun. That’s when the best stuff happens – BOREDOM IS GOOD FOR KIDS.

So breathe. You’ve got this. With some creativity, a few toilet rolls, and Hypa Wi-Fi working in your corner, your airtime—and your sanity—can survive the school holidays.