Having Fun As a Family Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune…

Everyone is back to school, weeks are busy and when the weekend arrives, there is cleaning, laundry and groceries. A lot of kids are involved in activities as well – sometimes it leaves very little time for the simple things in life. Sometimes it is good to take a step back and try something new. In his book, “Think Like a Monk”, Jay Shetty suggests that we should always be trying new things and always spend time reflecting. How do you spend your time? What is your relationship with media? How do you spend your money?
What does your family value? Sometimes, when a busy week ends, it is good to just slow down and enjoy each other. Here are a few ideas that you can share with your family that might help you re-group and slow down and just “be together” this Autumn.
1. Bake an apple pie – you can even visit an apple farm and do some picking first – or go to a local farmer’s market and buy some apples.
2. Pack some sandwiches and go on a picnic – the snow will soon be here so, make the most of every sunny, warm day.
3. Make a pinecone and peanut butter bird feeder and keep a diary of all the birds you attract.
4. Start a Family Gratitude Journal with your kids – add sometime every day. Write out the details and, if it involves a person, write a little thank you note together.
5. Make some chili or soup together.
6. Make a scarecrow for your front lawn with clothes the kids have grown out of.
7. Press some leaves with wax paper and an iron – go for a “leaf walk or hike” first and bring back your treasures to press.
8. Cozy up with a chapter book and blankets and just read.
9. Visit one new park each weekend and keep going until the snow flies.
10. Take a flashlight walk around your neighbourhood.

Most of all, talk about school, ask questions, purchase a scrap book and start putting a piece of art or writing or both each month so that you have a record of their year (and you don’t have to keep everything). Look for ways to celebrate wins (and failures and mistakes that are part of growing). Eat healthy, stay active and be cognizant of using screens. If your kids are small, you are tired so, take time for yourself and to spend time with your spouse. Be pro-active and always, always, give yourself a break! You are doing the best you can and it is OK to feel tired and definitely OK to need a break.