This is something that you can do if you have a mixture of boys and girls. You get the kids moving and they learn the mechanics of working within a team. Be sure to stress the importance of teamwork over individual glory when the kids are playing. You do want your kids to be competitive but you don’t want to overdo it.
I know that sounds simple or old fashioned. However, in this age of ipods and video games sometimes simple things are the best. Just make sure that they don’t get too heavy handed with the tagging.
Another oldie but goodie, catch is one of the simplest but fun activities you can do with your kid. This is another one that is not really gender specific. All you need is a ball and a glove and you’re good to go. Make sure that you are not around any windows, though.
An outdoor play or concert
This one is for parents that have theatrical kids. If your kids are always playing dress up when they are inside, this one will be a blast. The costumes can be clothes you can not or do not wear. The kids can make the backdrops from cardboard. Let them create the script or even better just let them ad lib.
Go to an orchard to pick apples
If you live near an apple orchard, you could plan a day for you and your kids to go to the apple orchard and pick apples. This will be a great time for you to teach kids facts about apples. It will also give kids appreciation for the farmers that pick the apples they eat everyday. As a bonus the kids can help you make tasty treats with the apples when you get home.
Collect different color leaves for a collage
If you have a lot of trees in your yard, put the leaves to use instead of complaining about having to rake them. Tell your kids to gather leaves that are different colors. Once they come in with the leaves, they will glue the leaves to some construction paper and make a leaf collage.
Fall is a great time to get in touch with nature. It’s not so hot outside that you can fry an egg on the sidewalk. It’s not so cold that you have to bundle your kids up in twenty layers of clothes before they go outside. Use some of these tips to help your family enjoy this fun time of year.
DeAnna Troupe is a small business coach. She runs her business while she works a part time job and raises four kids with her husband.
