Summer is (almost) officially over, but the fun doesn’t have to be. If you still have teens at home or older children that live close by, I have some great ideas for family-friendly special activities and events. Spending time together is a great way to make new memories with your older kids while getting to know each other even better. It’s a win/win!
Here are some winning ways to entertain your older kids:
Concerts
Figure out which band, group or DJ you all like listening to (Ed Sheeran, Kygo maybe?) and find out when they’ll be performing in your area. Or, make it an extra special getaway and travel to go see the concert in another city. What’s really fun for you and your kids is to buy the Meet and Greet concert tickets where you can pose for pictures with the artist and maybe get some extra merch and swag, too! You might even be able to get a walk-through of their tour bus. Anything is possible! For help planning the perfect concert adventure, Just Ask!
Dinner Parties
Why not plan a dinner party with some of your friends and your kids’ friends and all cook together? If the weather is nice, plan to eat outdoors underneath the trees. Grill some chicken, whip up some pesto pasta and crank the music. (Sorry neighbors!) It’s always so much fun to cook, sing and dance with your kids and your besties. For extra fun, have everyone go around the table and share something like their favorite movie or next vacation destination. If you'd like the pesto pasta recipe, Just Ask!
Watch Parties
Binge watch shows on Netflix, Hulu or Amazon that are appropriate for all ages. Set up a snack bar with popcorn, candies and drinks and hunker down on the couch together. I love the chatter and conversation that arise from these casual, memorable times. I suggest Friday Night Lights!
Book Club
Have everyone read the same book on vacation or over weekends. Then, discuss at a bi-weekly brunch or dinner. Not only will this encourage a real conversation, but it’s fun to see how you and your children interpret the books differently.
Hiking
Whether it’s a local hiking path in your area or a 2-3 hour car ride away, go out and enjoy nature together. No ear buds allowed! Don’t enforce that your children need to converse, just walk along side them and take in all the fresh air and scenery. Don’t forget your camera!
Outdoor Sports
Play tennis, a round of golf or simply go on a run. Try to stay as healthy as you can while having fun along the way with your brood. A little healthy competition can be fun and motivating.
Get ready to re-connect.
