Fall means cooler temperatures, changing and falling leaves and many fun activities to enjoy. Traditions create closeness in a family and make memories that last a lifetime. This is a perfect time to start some new fall family traditions that your family will look forward to each year. Try some of these fun ideas.
Pumpkins
Pumpkins are a symbol of fall. You can easily incorporate them into your fall family traditions. Take the kids to the pumpkin patch and pick the perfect one as a family. Try different pumpkin recipes like pumpkin bars, pumpkin bread or roasted pumpkin seeds. Have each family member choose a small pumpkin or gourd and paint a silly face on it for another fun idea.
Campfire
As the nights get colder, find time to sit around the campfire as a family, either in the backyard or at a local park. Start a fall family tradition as you roast hot dogs, make s’mores and tell ghost stories.
Apple Picking
As fall approaches, the apples are ready to be harvested. Head to a nearby orchard as a family to pick apples and have a picnic. If available, pick up some apple cider and try some cider donuts. Back at home, try making homemade applesauce, apple pies or apple pancakes. Don’t forget to add some fresh-picked apples to the lunch boxes. All this apple action is great for creating fall family traditions.
Football
Many families enjoy sports and football is a favorite fall pastime. So, attend a high school, college or professional game as a family. Try tailgating before the game and have fun cheering on your team together. It is also just as fun to root for your team from the comfort of your own living room. Prepare some delicious snacks and watch the game together.
Planting
Fall is the perfect time to plant bulbs and trees. Use the opportunity to teach your kids about gardening. Let them help pick out items and plant them in your yard. If you plant a tree, start a tradition of taking a family photo in front of it each year. Over time it will be fun to compare the tree’s growth, as well as your family’s.
Leaves
As the leaves begin to change, take a scenic drive. Then stop and get ice cream along the way or make a pit stop at a local playground to break up the drive. You may also have a lot of leaves in your yard to clean up. Have the kids help rake them into a big pile and jump in. Don’t forget to snap some photos that are certain to be in the running for the family Christmas card.
Comfort Food
Everyone enjoys comfort food. Get the kids involved in cooking so they can learn to make your family’s favorite foods. It is also a good time to come up with some new recipes to enjoy in the years to come. While you are cooking, talk to them about the importance of family traditions.
Fall family traditions are easy to start and so worthwhile to continue. As your children grow, they may not remember everything you hope they will, but the traditions that you return to, year after year, will create lasting memories that they will treasure for years to come.
Parent Input Please
Each month we have a parenting-inspired question that we ask parents on our Facebook page. Then we share those answers with you the following month!
This month’s question is: What is a fall activity your family enjoys?
Check out our readers’ responses from last month on How do you set your kids up for the new school year?
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