Your Family Needs a Staycation!

I have a couple thoughts buzzing around in my head today. #1 - The excitement of Easter is over... so now what can we do to shake things up at home?

#2 -  With event after event being canceled and majority of attractions being closed, it's leading to the cancellation of many peoples upcoming vacation plans.

Still, my family needs something fun to look forward to, the outdoor time, no-screen time, and the quality time a vacation provides. We can have all that, from the comfort of your own home, with a simple family weekend campout in our own backyard. This weekend is suppose to warm up and include some much needed sunshine, so here are some ideas to get the party started.

Set up some tents.

What kid doesn’t love playing in a tent? BONUS: it’ll provide shady enclaves during the day (whether for surly teens, tired dogs, or moms who just want to read) and suitable shelter at night. 

Have a campfire.

Grill out, make smores, and play some country music as you guys enjoy this spring weather together! Plus, this is a great chance to burn all those sticks and leaves you’ve cleaned up from your yard. 

Compete in the backyard Olympics.

Set up obstacles and challenges in your backyard to keep the kids busy, active and competitive all day. Ward off potential arguments with a judge/referee (um, that would be you), scorecards and lots of cheering. If you need a little inspiration, pinterest is flooded with great ideas that you can create with items you have right in your home.

Create a scavenger hunt.

Make your own clues for around your yard or your neighborhood. Want premade clues that are perfect for your child's age? You know where I’m gonna tell you to look, hello pinterest! (It’s been my saviour lately)

Have a beach themed day.

I know, it’s still too cold to bust out the sprinkler, but you can still partake in beach activities! Set up a volleyball net, blast some music, make lemonade and grill out. This is a great time to dust off a sandbox or water table if you can.

Let your kids play photographer.

I’m always hesitant to hand over my camera because I don’t want to have to erase 623 pictures of my preschooler’s left ear, but the resulting project can be really cool. Have them document their day, and help them print up a little picture book at the end of it. 

Watch an outdoor movie.

Movies aren’t just for rainy days! Just grab some popcorn, sleeping bags, and some sort of screen (from a projector to a laptop). You’re kids will love watching their favorite movies under the stars.

We’re in week four, or maybe five? Who can keep track at this point, of this pandemic shut down. We need to keep combating the boredom, so let’s not forget all of the fun we can have when we get outside and put forth some intention!