Take time to be a dad today!
Here are some ideas for easy, free or low-cost ways to spend quality time with your kids. Use the filter on the left to find activities appropriate for your children's ages.
Bring a shovel or even better, use your hands to dig your way to China. Create mud structures and mud pies. Let your children have the opportunity to get really dirty while learning how to play and be creative by themselves.
Terribly Funny
Do you know what the loudest pet is?
A trumpet.
Whether it is you or your child who has the sweet tooth, you both will be having a sweet time making this treat together.
Teach your kids the importance of washing their hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before/after activities to prevent illness. Make it fun by teaching them a handwashing song. For example, sing two verses of Row, Row, Row Your Boat.
Read about the benefits of outdoor play on child development, then go out and do it with your children!
You’re a parent, which means you’re busy! Eating healthy can seem like a big task. Consider making a large amount of food on the days that you do have some time – like whole wheat spaghetti with sauce and broccoli – and freeze some for later. Put enough for one meal in a freezer bag, then when you’re in a rush you’re already halfway to a healthy family dinner! Learn more tips to eat healthy as a family.
On designated days throughout the year, participating federal land management agencies offer free entrance and waive some standard amenity and day-use fees. Plan your visit using the Build a Trip tool!
You and your family will eat healthier and save money if you take some time to plan your meals out, finding recipes and comparing costs before you go to the store. Involve your kids in the steps! Research what food is in season, write out grocery lists and recipes, and team up to compare prices in the store. Learn more meal planning tips!
Growing their own garden is a good way for kids to learn about science and the responsibility of taking care of a living thing. Learn how to grow seedlings in an egg carton.
Ask each member of the family to guess the "secret ingredients" in a new dish. This fun and simple game will get everyone involved in food prep! Visit the Family Dinner Project for this and other activities for the dinner table.
Encourage your kids to choose a food on their plate and "rewind" its journey to get to your table. Where did it have to go before it made it to you? Visit the Family Dinner Project for this game and other ideas.
Stuck inside on a rainy day or starting to feel bored on a long car ride? The game 21 Questions is a great way to pass the time. One player thinks of something (anything!). The other players have 21 yes or no questions to ask that player to try to guess whatever that player had thought of. You can play with kids of any age and use the opportunity to have your kids practice critical thinking skills while having fun!
Terribly Funny
Do you know what the loudest pet is?
A trumpet.