12 Free Activities to Try This Spring With Your Family

*Collaborative Post

Spending quality time with your family creates lasting memories! As the weather gets warmer you can start enjoying outdoor activities. While planning an outing on a budget is stressful, there are plenty of free things you can do this year. So, review this list of fun free family activities to get started.

1. Walk Around a Park

Taking a walk is a good way to enjoy nature and promote exercise. It’s recommended to get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week. This helps control weight gain and prevent the risk of high blood pressure.

Another benefit is that it gets your kids off their screens. You can even have them leave their electronics at home and use it as a chance to better connect. Plus, some parks have playgrounds for younger kids. Keep in mind it’s okay for you to let your inner child out and maybe swing. Playing as an adult can reduce stress and stimulate creativity.

2.  Go Cloud Watching

Finding shapes in the clouds can engage your creative side. This is especially important since you might not use it as often for work. Plus, it’s a fun way to foster your kid’s imagination. Who knows they may come up with some wacky ideas that get the whole family laughing.

Remember laughter is one of the best medicines for stress relief. You can even make it a fun game to see who can come up with the best description. Ensure you find a comfy spot with a good view of the sky.

3.  Create Your Own Ecosystem

For those interested in the environment, this can be a fun educational opportunity. Repurpose an old glass jar and fill it with dirt, plants and small critters from a nearby river. Once home, place it near a well-lit window.

As soon as the sediment settles you can see all the different life within the ecosystem. It can also be a unique way to add some character to your home decor. If that takes too much time, you can plant a few flowers or start a garden instead.

4. Take a Hike

For those who enjoy being more active, hiking is fun and completely free. Being in nature is a great way to boost your mood and get in a workout. Plus, most parks have trails for all different levels.

You can even make a whole day of it and pack a lunch for the rest stop. Even if you don’t plan on being out long, bring plenty of water and snacks. Also, dress in multiple layers and come up with games kids can play on the trial.

5. Play a Board Game

Playing a board game is a great way to get the whole family involved in some friendly competition. There are so many different games to choose from, depending on if you enjoy strategy or luck-based ones. You can even invite friends or extended family over to make it a game night.

Here are some games to play with the family:

• Catan
• Codenames
• Family Feud Trivia Box Card Game
• Beat the Parents
• Exploding Kittens

6. Decorate Easter Eggs

Decorating Easter eggs can be a fun spring tradition. It gives your kids a chance to be creative and showcase their personalities. Many parents use colourful dyes for decorating, but you can also use tissue paper or crayons.

These non-traditional materials maybe a little less messy. Once you are done designing, put the eggs on display for your family that comes to visit. They also could be a fun addition to your child’s Easter basket.

8. Have a Family Sports Day

This is perfect for active families who enjoy friendly competition. Grab a volleyball and a net for a family volleyball match, or see who’s got the best footwork as you kick a soccer ball around. You can even invite friends or your neighbours to join in. Don’t forget to stay hydrated especially if it’s a very warm day so make sure you have plenty of water bottles for your volleyball team. You could play these in your backyard or head to a local park. If you have access to an indoor tennis court you could set up games such as badminton or doubles tennis.

If you don’t want to buy equipment, get creative. For example, you could set up two old containers that mark the length of an imaginary soccer goal. If you want to make it even more interesting, turn it into a tournament-style with a prize at the end. 

10. Design a Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts can encourage kids to get outside in a fun way. Sometimes just going for a walk may feel boring to a young child. That’s why a scavenger hunt can distract them and give them specific things to look for.

Think about things they would see in nature, such as certain coloured leaves or people passing by. When designing the scavenger hunt, plan the route ahead of time and scout it out. You want to make sure it’s a walkable and safe location for your kids. Plus, give yourself plenty of time to write out the clues.

11. Go For a Bike Ride

Riding a bike is the perfect way to enjoy the warmer weather. You can find local trails to explore or just ride around your neighbourhood. For those younger kids, provide them with training wheels. This might even be an ideal time to teach them how to ride on their own.

12. Spend the Weekend Camping

Do you enjoy roasting marshmallows and hiking along science trails? Camping can be the perfect getaway from the stress of life. It allows you to unplug from your electronics as well. Even if you don’t want to go far, set up a tent in your backyard.

Family Bonding Activities You Should Try

Spring is the ideal time to connect with family and enjoy the outdoors. There are so many free things you can do this spring. So, review this list when planning your next family adventure!

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.