Family Time is FUN Time
No matter how busy life gets, it's important for families to spend time together. Young children benefit from the love and attention they receive during these precious moments. So, go ahead, put family time at the top of your "to do" list.
Getting the Fun Started
- Start a tradition. Plan a family meal at least once a week -- even more often if you can. Eating together provides a wonderful opportunity to talk with your children about their day and show them that they are your top priority. Get kids involved by giving them age-appropriate tasks like setting the table, tossing the salad and cleaning up. Click HERE for fun recipes
- Open a book daily. Help your child’s imagination soar by reading favorite stories together. Point out fun things you see in picture books and let your toddler turn the pages. Get free books from First 5 Riverside while supplies last.
Call 800-266-3880 - Host a weekly family fun night. Turn off the TV and computer, and get creative. Set up a row of chairs and role-play as a bus driver or train conductor; enjoy a game of musical chairs; create a family photo scrapbook; or use everyday items like cardboard boxes, glue and cotton balls to create pieces of art. Let your child pick where to hang their artwork.
- Take a field trip. Visit the zoo, local museums, libraries and historical monuments to learn about animals, interesting historical facts and other educational topics. Call ahead and find out if there’s a kids’ day, and ask if free or discounted tickets are available.
- Get moving. Go for a walk, play catch, ride bikes around the neighborhood or visit the park. It’s a chance to spend time together as well as squeeze in a healthy dose of active play! Visit eatmovegrow.org for more ideas.
- Make every moment count. Above all, use every moment together to learn from and listen to your child, even when taking care of every day errands. Young children love to help -- take your kids grocery shopping and let them pick out fruits and vegetables while you ask about favorite foods. When driving, point to colors and shapes, and ask your child to count trees or read simple signs.