Activities, Dad Style

Try Something Different with the Kids and Show Them What Interests You

Finding activities to do with the kids doesn’t usually take a lot of work. Google took care of that.

But being creative with activities and outings still takes some effort. Take advantage of who you are, your interests and your role as a stay-at-home dad to add your special touch to what you and the kids do all day.

There is no need to settle for the playground five days a week. Although there’s no doubt the kids have fun there, the same thing every day can get boring for them as well. There certainly is a lot out there that interests you that you can share with the kids.

Most dads like sports. During the warmer months if there is a pro or college baseball team in town, hit a matinee game.

Remember the sights, sounds, and smells of the ballpark when you were a kid and getting to soak up all that with dad? Give your kids the same experience and enjoy the afternoon out.

Get some Crackerjacks and enjoy the sunshine. Teach them how to take score or explain some of the history of the game. Chances are you’ll all enjoy yourselves and you’ll get to build some memories.

Instead of heading out to the local park’s trail or dragging the stroller around the neighborhood for the thousandth time this week, get out and experience nature.

Even in urban areas you should be able to find a nature preserve or state park with some different trails. If your kids are old enough to hike it themselves, let them. There are other options, such as baby backpacks, which can usually hold up to 40 pounds. Strap junior on and be on your way.

Pack a lunch and after that hike, have a picnic in a little more scenic place than you’re used to and make an afternoon of it.

Just make sure to plan ahead so you are familiar with the terrain you are dealing with and so you don’t overdo it for anyone in the family. And remember to take snacks, lots of water and sunscreen.

But instead of the grocery store or other typical spot, go to a retail location you use for a hobby or other interests and see if you pique theirs.

Like outdoors stuff? Take them to a place like Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s. Those stores are practically amusement parks, with aquariums and animal displays. Teach the kids about the nature they are seeing. Pick up that camping gear you needed while you’re at it.

Need something for computers? Go and get hands on with the equipment. Need a golf club? Go to a big sporting goods store and test out the simulator, and have the kids help you try it out.

More than likely, whatever items you like to browse for, they’ll be interested in as well. You may even develop a partner in your hobby.

Just because they are kids, doesn’t mean they only will have interest in exhibits at the children’s museum or the dinosaur section of the local science center, although those are never bad afternoons out.

Look deep into what your city or a location near by has to offer. There could be firefighters’ museums, railroad museums or music displays that aren’t widely known about, but the kids could have a blast there. Especially if there are hands-on exhibits. If you have an interest, there is probably something out there for you.

They’ll learn a little and you won’t be bored with the same old educational experience.

A lot of movie theaters these days offer morning or daytime movies you can watch with the kids. Take advantage of them and get out to a flick every now and then. Find something all of you can enjoy and talk about.