Frugal, Fall Family Fun

Fall.

Autumn.

No matter where in the country you live, fall brings a relief from the oppressive heat of summer. A welcome change. A new outlook on outdoor activities. Here are 10 ideas to get out there with your family and enjoy everything the season has to offer.

Apple Picking

The classic fall activity. Grab a jacket and head out. Teach your kids that apples really do grow on trees and not magically appear in super market produce bins.

Hay Bale Maze

OK. I admit that I thought these were hokey at first. Wrong-o. So much fun. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and plan on getting lost – as a family. Work together to get out.
Nature Walk
Check with your local or county park district. They often offer guided nature walks on weekend mornings. If not, you can make your own.

Night Sky Viewings
While you are checking on nature walks at the park, see if they have a night sky viewing event. You can also research for a local astronomy club, college or observatory. The excitement of being at the park at night combined with the truly amazing views of the autumnal sky makes for great family fun. Did you know that they have these flashlights that shine all the way up to the starts? It’s kinda like a super charged pointer. Very cool.

Fall Festivals
Experience small town America at its best. You can head to a festival in your town or pick one that you’ve never been to. Explore together.

Soup Party
Borrow stockpots and crock pots from all your friends and make as many soups and chilis as you can. Have the kids help in the planning and prep. Let it simmer all day. Set out Styrofoam coffee cups (yes, bad for the environment but easy clean up) and an array of toppings and add-ins. Croutons, bacon bits, sour cream, green onions, diced tomatoes – you name it. Invite over everyone you know for a taste test and prepare for the easiest party ever.

The Zoo
Yes, you already go to the zoo. Everyone does – in the summer months. Fall and winter have such a different fell at the zoo. The crowds are reduced to a trickle and it makes for a relaxing afternoon, wandering around on a sunny but cool fall day.

Historical Village or School Tour
Now that the weather has cooled it is the perfect time to head to a historical village, town or school for a tour. Every community has one and yours could sure use the financial support. Another great opportunity for learning and family time. You may even get to hold your tweens hand…for a minute.

Family Canning Adventure
Maybe you’ve canned before, maybe not. Why not experiment as a family? Pick a rainy Saturday and figure out how things work together. You can include an early morning run to your local farmer’s market for produce and maybe a discussion on how hard life used to be before the handy, 24-hour grocery store.

Pumpkin Picking
Please, please, please do not buy a pumpkin from your local hardware super store or from the produce section of your grocery store. Make it an annual family tradition to head out to a U-Pick farm on the weekend. It makes for great fun, family-bonding and memory making. In fact, many U Pick farms have a plethora of activities for you to enjoy, from roasting hot dogs and smores to hayrides and face painting. Bring the camera.

Why are you still here? Go. Have fun with your kids.

• God Bless the VTech LS6475-3 Multitasking System!!
• Eat These 12 Super Foods For A Healthier You
• Why Your Health Should Be A Priority In Your Life
• Simple Ways To Eat Healthy On A Budget
• Giveaway: X Out 1-Step Acne Treatment