Every family needs a fun day out every once in a while. The chance to reconnect away from the home – and the many devices you’ll find there – and enjoy a bit of time involved in communal activities is something that helps strengthen bonds and make memories. There are plenty of options out there for things to do together, but sometimes the best ideas are the simplest, and those can be easy to let pass by unnoticed.
For example, how often have you considered that, wherever you live, you’re probably not far away from an area of countryside that you’ve barely explored? When you want to spend time together as a family, sometimes it isn’t necessary to book time away in a hotel, or pay the entry fees for a bowling alley or similar attraction. Sometimes, the best break of all can be an impromptu family get-together somewhere that doesn’t have to cost a cent – among the fresh air and green fields!
Plan ahead for a day out
Let’s get things clear – it’s not a great idea to get the family together and say you’re going to take a drive in the countryside. Without prior planning, this kind of trip can feel pointless, and it may not be long before some or all of the family decide they’d rather be at home. Take a look online at a map of the area, or search for some more rural attractions near you, and plan your trip around what seems interesting. A hike to a local point of interest can form part of it, while the opportunity of a meal in a country restaurant can often seal the deal with more cynical family members – so scout the area to see what’s on offer.
Prepare a day’s worth of activities (or two)
There are very few areas in America, or anywhere in the world, that aren’t close to a spot of historical interest, a few locations for family activities, and a place where you can sit down for a meal. A bit of research – and some consulting with the kids – can chase up some activities that work for everyone. It doesn’t hurt to have backup options, either. While some members of the family might want to put this trout guide from Tailored Tackle to good use at a local lake, others might want to check out a cycling or hiking trail. It’s also worth planning a “dry weather” itinerary and one for a rainy day – because the weather is no respecter of plans.
Get the kids on board ahead of time
While sometimes impromptu get-togethers are the best of all, this more usually applies when everyone just happens to be together already, and someone ventures a suggestion. A day out takes more co-ordination and, if you spring it on everyone, you might not get the enthusiastic reaction you were hoping for. On the other hand, if you plant the seed ahead of time by saying how nice it would be to hang out as a family, this can mean that the idea of a day out is received more willingly. You can be open to suggestions for where to go and what to do – the kids will buy into something all the more if they’ve played a part in the planning.
The chances are that there are some hidden gems within easy driving distance from your home – and they can be the perfect place to enjoy some time together as a family!
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