Bonding with Kids: A Busy Dad's Budget-Friendly Guide
- “Quality time” isn’t just a buzzword; it really is important
- The best bonding ideas are the simplest ones
- How to build positive memories with your kids
Today’s dads are extremely busy, not to mention strapped for cash. Finding the time and the money to share fun activities with your kids can be a real challenge. But quality time together is important – for your children’s development and for your own piece of mind. So go ahead and schedule an afternoon away from your computer, your television, and your cell phone. Your kids will appreciate the extra attention, and your wallet will appreciate these cost-conscious ideas:
Visit Local Attractions
Most cities house a variety of attractions and historical landmarks. As a local, you may have forgotten about the entertainment options that exist in your own backyard. Check out the tourism sites for your nearby city. Zoos, museums, learning centers, and parks can all make great day trips. And they’re designed to accommodate families. Purchasing a yearly membership to a museum or an aquarium is a smart way to save money, since you’ll enjoy the opportunity to visit as many times as you like.
Take Advantage of What Nature Has Given You
Nature has a lot to offer. But more importantly, it’s free! You can always find something fun to do outside - whether it’s kite-flying in the spring, swimming in the summer, hiking in the fall, or sledding in the winter. Outdoor entertainment is a natural stress reliever, and it provides an easy way to incorporate exercise into your weekly routine.
Check Out Local Sporting Events
Local sporting events are just as exciting as major league games. And you’re guaranteed to find better seats! Even if you don’t know anyone on your local high school football team, cheering in the bleachers can still be a lot of fun. You’ll be supporting youth sports and the town school system, and you’ll probably run into friends from the neighborhood. Attending local games is also a good way to get younger kids excited about sports that they might like to try. Throw in a few treats from the concession stand, and your family will feel that the evening was a hit.
Use Their Toys and Games
You have probably spent plenty of time tripping over your children’s toys. But when was the last time you actually played with one of those toys? Kids love when grownups can interact on their level. You are never too old to build Legos, play Monopoly, or toss a football around with your children. In fact, an afternoon’s worth of participation from you can bring new life to old toys. You’ll be surprised how quickly kids forget about wanting the next cool gadget, when you lend your enthusiasm and imagination to their old games.
Get Them Involved in Your Studies
You help you kids with their homework. They’ll get a kick out of turning the tables, and helping you with yours. Let your kids quiz you with flashcards. Or discuss your next research paper during family dinner. Your commitment to school work will inspire them to excel. Plus, they’ll develop a better understanding of what exactly keeps you busy and why it’s important to your family.
Try a New Recipe
Instead of going to the mall or the video arcade, spend a weekend afternoon baking something delicious. Kids don’t need expensive diversions. In fact, they’d rather do something that’s hands-on. The Internet is full of kid-proof recipes, with tasks that are appropriate for any age group. You can add to the fun by crafting makeshift chef hats or aprons.
Make the Most of the Holidays
Whether it is watching fireworks on the Fourth of July, checking out the Memorial Day parade, or driving around and looking at holiday light displays, there is always something to do around the holidays. Making the most of that special time of year is a lot of fun and a cheap form of entertainment for the entire family.
All in all, your kids don’t care if you dine out at a restaurant and pay for theater tickets, or stay at home with a homemade pizza and a DVD. The important thing is that you are all together and enjoying each other’s company.
Neal Applin lives in Toledo, Ohio with his wife and four children.
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