Get kids outside to enjoy the Fall weather

November 12, 2009

Though the days are already shorter, the fall air is still crisp and invigorating. Take advantage of time off from school and work to get kids outside and enjoy what's left of autumn.

If you have a yard full of leaves, have some fun while getting a chore done. Outfit the kids with rakes and make two or three giant piles of dried leaves. Send the kids inside for a moment and hide a few goodie bags of candy in one or two of the piles. Then, let them loose and watch as they dive into the fallen foliage for the sugary treats.

When everyone is spent, rake the leaves back into bags and bring them to the curb for pickup, or donate them to a neighbor with a compost pile.

If you live in a warmer climate, get kids outside with a similar activity - organize a scavenger hunt! Give kids one clue to start the activity off, and have three index cards hidden somewhere in the yard to lead them to the next clue. The final card should lead them directly to a hidden bag of treats.

For older kids, make a treasure map of the neighborhood to lead them to the goodies, or leave clues along a bike trail.