By Joyce Wilson from teacherspark.org
As parents, we absolutely love spending time with our kids – but once the kids start going to school full time, it becomes harder and harder to fit in that quality time. Still, that quality family time is essential, which is why we’re sharing fun activities that you can do during school breaks.
Take a Road Trip
When the kids have some time off of school, it is a great chance to pack up the car and take the family on a road trip so they can experience new things. If you are low on funds, you can take day trips to local places, like museums in your area or the state fair. You could even go to a local amusement or water park and blow off some steam. You can also get creative with your time and schedule vacation time to coincide with a business trip, which can help you stay well within your budget.
The Outdoor Authority notes that another fun idea is to take the kids camping where you can have all sorts of fun experiences. At a minimum, you can enjoy hiking long and engaging trails and learn about new plants and trees along the way. There is also plenty of fun to be had as you roast marshmallows, tell ghost stories, and camp under the stars.
Backyard Fun
The great thing about family time is that you don’t have to travel across the country to make it happen. Instead, you can also have great fun in your own backyard. You could practice sports like tossing the football or create a backyard obstacle course that everyone in the family can enjoy.
This is also a great chance to entertain your kids while teaching them something at the same time. For instance, you could teach them construction as you build a treehouse or create a giant matching game that will enhance their memory.
No matter what you decide to do, safety should come first. Invest in a secure and sturdy fence that will keep outside dangers at bay. If you are looking to install a new fence, then make sure to do your due diligence when finding a contractor.
Whether it’s a treehouse, fence, or other hardscape feature, it’s a win-win investment. Not only will you enjoy an updated and more functional outdoor space, these types of upgrades can increase your home’s appraisal value.
Educational Activities
As younger children continue to develop, it will be important to implement these educational and fun activities into your school breaks. This is a great time to teach your kids new life skills like cooking, budgeting for expenses, and learning how to make friendship bracelets as you learn the importance of meaningful connections.
Deep Drip points out that summer vacations are a great time to teach your kids about gardening as you plant your own flowers and vegetables in your backyard. It’s awesome to show them how a single seed can grow and mature into a strong plant. Have your kids involved in every step, including closing what to plant and helping to maintain it every day.
Whether you get food from the garden or another source, it may also be fun to teach your kids to make simple meals and desserts. What’s more, if you want to expand your kids’ culinary horizons. you can subscribe to eat2explore. This way, you and your whole family can try different dishes from around the world
Be Prepared
Planning ahead for upcoming breaks will put you in a better position to handle having the kids at home, and can help reduce the stress of keeping everyone engaged. So take the time to outline some potential activities for each break, and be sure to adjust them for the season. It’s wise to also stash away objects or learning materials that will come in handy. Maybe it’s a bug kit for when you go out hiking, a backyard game, supplies for some craft activities or the start of a book club subscription.
In all the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to keep yourself in mind, as well. Make sure you allow yourself a little time for self-care, whether that’s a relaxing bath after a hectic day or a new wardrobe to help you feel and look your best. Also, if possible, see about taking time off from work or adjust your schedule so that you don’t feel pulled in different directions.
As you can see, there are many fun activities that you can do with your kids. Whether you’re interested in purchasing a vacation house you can enjoy on a regular basis or looking for ways to have fun in the backyard you have now, there are many ways you can have some fun during times off from school. Enjoy your break!
