Family fun is certainly possible with this list of parenting activities!

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Parenting involves a heck of a lot more than just managing behavior and providing essentials.  Parenting can also be educational, entertaining and…well, fun!  Parenting activities don’t have to be extravagant or expensive to be fun.  Parents can choose activities as simple as board games, puzzles, crafts, or even baking to engage in with their child.  Here's a list to get you started...

1. Board games
2. Puzzles
3. Visit a library
4. Arts and crafts
5. Cooking or baking
6. Playing catch at the park
7. Going out for ice cream (or another treat)
8. Go for a nature walk
9. Go for a bike ride
10. Go through old photos
11. Start a hobby together
12. Watch a movie together
13. Go have a picnic near a lake
14. Engage in some pool activities
15. Start a new family tradition
16. Help run a lemonade stand

Sure, these parenting activities are simple and maybe even a bit obvious – but they will get you off to a great start. 

Along with the entertainment value provided by family activities, there are many other benefits, including…

1. Parenting activities promote closeness between parent and child (or family as a whole).
2. Family activities create lasting memories.
3. Activities allow parents to get to know their child(ren) in a fun, relaxed environment.
4. Parents can use activities to teach valuable life lessons.
5. Parenting activities are simply a great way to pass the time.

Time together with the family (or even 1:1) should be simple, low-key, and fun for each participant.  

There’s not much of a benefit when the activity results in stress, frustration, and/or hostility.  Keep things positive to the extent that you can.

Looking for an activity that really gets the family excited? 

How about trying one of the following activities to really bring the excitement:

1. Go on a camping trip
2. Visit an amusement park
3. Plan an overnight road trip
4. Visit the local zoo
5. Spent a day on the beach at a local lake
6. Go do put-put golf (mini golf)
7. Visit a family amusement center
8. Go to the drive-in theater (if you can find one!)
9. Pamper yourselves with a spa day!

Parenting activities can be fun for the whole family – or as “one-on-one” activities.   These activities don’t need to break the bank to be enjoyable – there are plenty of options that can be done with little money (or no money at all).  

So, next time your child is complaining of "nothing to do" - or if you simply feel like spending some quality time with your child (or as a family) - then consider some of the suggestions listed above.  There's sure to be something for everyone!