You may be busy with the back-to-school hustle and bustle, but don't let that distract you from having a bit of fun with the family. The crisp air and bright orange trees bring about new activities to excite your children and remind them that summer isn't the only season with fun to offer.
Hike
There's nothing like the feel of the fresh autumn air and the sound of leaves crunching beneath your feet to reinvigorate you after a long week of school and work. Take your family on a hike through your local forest this weekend for some free outdoor exercise that is sure to be the perfect bonding opportunity.
Scavenger Hunt
You don't have to leave your neighborhood to have some free fall fun with the kids. Take them on a nature walk through the streets around your house and turn it into a scavenger hunt. They can search for acorns, leaves, flowers, and whatever other classic fall items you can think of in your area.
Apple Orchard
A classic for many families in the fall, apple picking is a great chance to enjoy the outdoors and create lasting memories. Head to your local pick-your-own orchard to get some apples, drink some cider, and hang out with the family. Then spend the afternoon baking apple pie or bobbing for apples in your backyard.
Pumpkin Patch
The hayride out to the patch could be enough fun on its own, but ending the day with your very own pumpkin to bring home is always the best part for any child. Many pumpkin patches have other activities like petting zoos and games to keep the kids entertained. When you get home, decorate the pumpkins with stickers, felt face cutouts, or any way you choose if it's too early to carve them.
Corn Maze
This is one of those times when you can actually tell your children to get lost and no one will care. Just send them into the corn maze. Split into groups depending on ages and see which group can make it through the maze the fastest, or work as a team, teaching your children how to figure out which way to go based on where the last path lead you.
Local Fall Fests
Check with your local parenting magazine or newspaper for local events that are free for younger children. Check out local apple festivals and maple syrup events, as well as farmer's markets and zoos that may offer specialty discount days.
It takes only a little research and a bit of creativity to find a ton of activities to do with the family without breaking the budget. Your kids will love the change from the summer fun routine and welcome the break from the stresses of being back in school and back to doing homework. And you could use some fun time, too.
