5 Fabulous Ideas for Not-So-Usual Family Fun Nights

When it comes to figuring out ways to keep your family occupied and connected to each other, it can be a challenge.  However, it is important that there is some quality time for relationship building and socialization. Below are five great ideas for family fun activities to use as bonding opportunities.

Eating without Utensils

Often utensils are the first things you look for when seated at a restaurant. However, try going to one where they do not provide them! It is totally acceptable and a fun part of the “medieval experience” when people eat with their hands. Actually, the real family fun activity will be kids getting to see their parents eating a meal with their hands!

Experience Jousting

To say jousting is exciting just does not come close to capturing the feeling for kids (and adults) when they get to see fighting knights on horses up close! Viewing medieval jousting will be both a lesson in history and super entertaining. This is a unique family activity that will keep everyone talking about the experience for some time.

Falconry

This ancient art comes alive for your family as they enjoy the unique experience of learning about falconry. The kids will love getting a chance to get an up close and personal look at actual birds of prey and can learn a little something from the falconer too.

Take an 11^th Century Tour

Take a trip back in time with this unique tour experience. Learn all about falconry, weaponry, the feudal system, knights and fair maidens and more! Parents and kids will enjoy this family fun activity and leave a lot smarter about life in medieval times.

Become a Knight

Of course, if it is your birthday, you expect to receive the royal treatment (I promise—no pun intended!). However, the king, to commemorate your special day can knight you.  And yes—there are both boy and girl knights! You and the kids will enjoy this ceremony and the photo session to take home the memories.

Click here to learn more about family fun activities in the Baltimore area.

5 Tips for Moms Planning Indoor Family Fun

When it is time for a family getaway, many moms find themselves as the designated planner for events. Of course, the aim is always to pack in as much of a good time as you can, especially if time is a concern. It is always nice to get away from home, but if you live in the Austin area, you will find there is plenty of family fun  just waiting for you right a home. Below are some ideas you can consider—whether you are planning a trip to the area or you are an Austin local.

Library Fun

Reading really is fun and fundamental—but the public library not just for reading anymore! You and the kids can enjoy activities like movies, concerts, puppet shows and video game tournaments—indoors! Since they are all free activities—consider taking the kids out for more family fun to a pizza meal afterwards.

Climb a Rock Wall

Kids love to climb! So why not let them take advantage of a 30 feet rock wall that is contained in the comfort of an indoor facility. The kids will enjoy family fun!

Dinosaur Domain

Museums are a great way to beat any kind of weather. They offer exhibits that keep both parents and kids occupied for hours. Especially cool are natural science exhibits that feature fossils, dinosaurs and other prehistoric relics. After your archeological excursion, extend the family fun with a great pizza meal for the kiddos.

Laser Tag

Adults love it…kids love it! Laser tag is a game of super-charged indoor fun. A vest and phaser put you in control and sets off the adrenaline as you try to get to center of the game arena.

Arcade Fun

Turn your kid loose in an arcade, and they are busy for hours! Play, accumulate tickets, and get great prizes. It is one of the best ways to beat the summer heat or the winter chill in Austin.

There are numerous options in the Austin area if you are looking to find family fun and beat the hot or cold weather. Check out other activities at Austin's Park n Pizza.

5 Safety Tips for Kid Rock Climbing

Many kids have been “climbers” since they first learned to pull-up and walk. So it only seems natural that when they are confronted with a rock wall they feel the need to conquer it! Rock climbing is a fantastic activity for children and they often show their competitive nature when climbing with others. It is also a popular activity for play dates, birthday activities, or family outings. If your kid hasn’t tried it, take them to a park, gym or other venue and watch them have a blast with this activity. Below are a few safety tips to keep in mind for kid rock climbing.

Orientation

It’s quite possible you could end up some place with a rock wall and your kid wants to climb, having never tried it before. However, if you anticipate your child climbing, you might consider introducing them to a few safety tips before their initial attempt. Videos are available online.

Safety Harness

A safety harness is a must. Some rock walls can be as high as 30 feet or more. Attendants at the venue should ensure children are properly fitted and harnessed. This provides protection in case they accidentally slip while climbing. A harness will also help ensure kids don’t flip over in the event they slip.

Closed Toe Shoes

Closed toes shoes should always be worn during climbing. This helps prevent scrapes or injuries to the feet and toes. It also provides a more stabilized footing for climbers.

Avoid Loose Fitting Clothing

Skirts, dresses, or other loose fitting clothing are an obstruction to climbing. Climbers typically wear clothing that allows them to move up and down walls without hindering mobility.

Helmet

Indoor climbing venues often do not require climbers to wear helmets; however, outdoor climbers should always wear a protective helmet.

Click here to learn more about kid rock climbing.

5 Fun and Easy Things Military Families Can Do Together

Many times military moms and dads want go on vacations, outings or other activities that involve the entire family but find they may be too costly. Depending on where families live, the opportunities can vary. However, with a little imagination and forethought, there are a number of things that they can do together. Check out a few ideas below for military family fun.

Movie Night

Host a movie night and invite other families--especially those in your military community! They will

undoubtedly appreciate the thought and your kids will love the camaraderie. Allow kids to operate a concession booth. Distribute “play money” to everyone for purchases of hot dogs, popcorn, and inexpensive boxes of candy from the dollar store. Rent a few family movies--especially old classics that everyone may not have seen in a long time. It’s a great way to get everyone involved in some military family fun and not break the bank.

Gardening

Kids love to play in the dirt--so make it worth the while by introducing them to gardening! If you have a small area of land, let kids plan a garden with their favorite veggies. Another alternative is to plant flowers. Most people love to monitor the progress of their gardening labor. Those living on a military base may consider a community garden that can benefit multiple families by providing fresh produce.

Amusement Parks

Families can enjoy a variety of activities at amusement parks. Rides, arcade games, miniature golf,

go-karts, etc. all provide great fun and activities for the whole family. Many parks host events or offer discounts designed for military family fun. This is especially true around holidays, like Memorial Day or the 4^th of July. Military families can get a lot of bang for their buck visiting area amusement parks.

Fishing

A fishing trip does not have to be an extravagant venture and it’s a great activity that the entire family

can participate in. Many lakes, ponds and parks have areas where you can fish for only the cost of a license. Fishing can be an excellent family activity. Aspects of fishing such as handing live bait and fish, and even cooking the catch, can be fascinating for kids. While some locations require that fish be returned after being caught others allow you to keep some of your catch or a portion of it. For many kids, just a picture of their catch is worth a thousand words and is great for bragging rights!

To learn more about activities for military family fun, visit www.austinspark.com.