Spring Fever

Are your kids getting cabin fever with everything going on?  Looking for some safe springtime fun for your family? You and your kids can celebrate spring, no matter what the weather is or other things that are going on. March 19th is the first day of spring this year and we all look forward to warmer days, flowers and more opportunities to get outside and play. Here are some fun safe springtime activities you and your child can enjoy even if its in your own backyard!

#1: Go on a Picnic: Nothing rings in springtime like going on a picnic as a family. When spring brings a gorgeous day, go outside and savor the sunshine with your kids. If the weather is not cooperating you  can hold a picnic indoors. Just spread a blanket on the floor and enjoy a family meal in your living room.

#2: Bounce a Bubble: Spring is the perfect time to go outside and blow bubbles with your kids. Among the many online recipes for bubbles, check out these fantastic bouncing bubbles from Steve Spangler.

#3: Do an Art Project: Bright and sunny? What a great time to go outside, observe the world around you and get creative. Springtime, with its extra light and ever-changing landscapes, is an extra-special time for art. Indoors or out, encourage your kids to grab a pencil and a piece of paper; an easel, paints and a canvas; or even a hunk of clay and express themselves through art. If it’s rainy and windy outside, pick a project and lose yourselves in the creative process indoors. (Parents enjoy a adult beverage and create as well!)

#4: Turn Flowers Different Colors: What a perfect way to bring nature and color indoors! Try doing this project using several jars in a rainbow of colors. Look for tulips, daffodils and crocuses in your neighborhood.

#5: Fly a Kite: Springtime breezes make it the perfect time to go outside and fly a kite with your kids!

#6: Make a Bird Feeder: Peanut butter + pine cones + birdseed = Bird feeders (If you do not have pine cones, small plastic cups work to!)

#7: Use Sidewalk Chalk: Head outside while it’s sunny and draw something wonderful with sidewalk chalk. Add some water from your garden watering can or a nearby puddle and watch the drawing transform. Then turn it into something new by blending and adding more chalk.

#8: Make a Teepee: Build A teepee or tent for lots of indoor-outdoor fun!

#9: Use Nature to Make Art: Art and spring go hand in hand. Go outside and find whatever flowers, petals and leaves are available in your area, then replicate designs by using simple shapes with a pen on paper.

#10: Plant Something: Planting seeds and nurturing them as they grow is a great indoor-outdoor activity for everyone. Start the seeds inside and transfer them outdoors when they’re large enough. Don’t limit yourself to just planting seeds. Plant started vegetables, flowers or even a tree in the ground with your kids!