Finding Fun in the Outdoors
Finding fun can mean moving through the door to the brilliant outside. Despite our dependence on electronics to entertain and engage, there are other places to find fun for the family.
Finding Fun Without Electricity
Our electricity was out all day yesterday.
Yes, it’s as scary as it sounds.
There were no electronics to play with. No television to watch. And no internet to surf. As a mom of boys, it could have been time to panic. As a homeschooling family used to doing things a little differently, we faced down a beautiful, crisp fall morning and just headed outside.
Because of the extreme heat this summer, I had forgotten how much fun it is for our family to spend the day in the open air. The kids played on the trampoline and ran through the field for no reason other than to run. We even had a picnic outside (mainly because I wasn’t able to cook indoors) and heated ravioli on the grill.
Yes, the boys loved that just as much as you think they would.
What are some ways you can get your family up and out now that the cooler, fall weather is calling?
Simple Ideas for Finding Fun
1. Plan a picnic.
It doesn’t have to be fancy, and it doesn’t have to be far. I plan to eat outside at least once a week if the weather permits. It’s a nice way to boost the energy just when I want to slow down.
Pro Tip: If the ground is wet, picnic on the trampoline or playground. Creative dining spaces make the picnic even more fun for the kids.
2. Have a cookout.
Last fall, we decided that we would cook out once a week. We invited the grandparents to make it even more fun (they lasted about three weeks – my mom was never a huge outdoor diner). I’m determined to follow through this year. The boys and the hubby LOVE to build fires. I enjoy experimenting with just what you can cook in an open fire. Plus, I always keep hot dogs around, just in case.
3. Take a walk or a bike ride together.
Walking is easier for us. We already live out in the country. I try to make time for a walk with each of my children individually, as well. This gives them some alone time with mommy and builds a sharing time that will help them talk openly with me as they grow.
4. Play a game.
Getting a Frisbee or soccer ball and playing a make-shift game not only gets the adrenaline pumping, but it will definitely get the laughter flowing when mom and dad are involved.
Fall is a great time to get everyone outdoors. Be creative and make special attempts to enjoy the weather as a family. Don’t wait for the electricity to go out to get out. Finding fun beyond the walls of the house is only limited by how daring you are willing to get.
