Even with the colder weather, my children need time outside. The fresh air, change of scenery, and space allow them freedom to explore and release their energy.

On school days, I try to give my children time to run around on the playground or in the gymnasium. Tired out before we arrive home, they are calm and mild-mannered for the ride home. My son is then focused on his homework, and the afternoon runs smoothly.

For a great Saturday morning activity, Paul and I took the kids to a local park. With two play sets, Paul watched our older kids on the big jungle gym while I watched the toddler on the smaller-sized playground.

Eventually, the entire family ended at the little playground. 🙂 With five different slides, each chose a different one. With the camera close by, I caught them having fun.

Having a family outing at the park provides the following 5 benefits:

1. Free Admission

In our area, we have five or six parks with child-friendly activities. For older children, consider a park with Frisbee golf. Though my children are still too young, we live near two parks with free courses which our niece (age 11) and nephews (ages 13 and 9) enjoy.

2. Contained Space

Most parks with playgrounds include a fence or barrier to keep the children from roaming out-of-bounds. Keeping up with three children or more is manageable when there are boundaries. Though kids will venture out of the area, educating them on safety and obeying the rules makes for a wonderful outing within the boundaries.

3. Creativity Encouraged

My daughter amazes me with her creativity. Having a jungle gym with multiple slides, tunnels, and levels allows for many hide-and-seek spots or tag options. Even with the great equipment on which to play, my children often enjoy using a stick to draw in the sand or stacking rocks by the trees. 🙂

4. Room to Explore

Finding a balance beam, merry-go-round, or rocking animal helps my children experiment with cause-and-effects relationships: if I push this dolphin to the ground and release it, what will happen? Now, what if I push this dolphin backwards and release it? Oh, it goes the other way.

Just giving them time and room to explore feeds my children’s brain development while making connections through visual and tactile means.

5. Social Skills Practice

Besides playing with each other, my children enjoy meeting new friends and including them in their fun. By introducing themselves and communicating the rules to their games, our children are practicing their social skills. Encouraging sharing, kindness, and taking turns on the playground reinforce the training gained from home.

Making a visit to the local park continues to bring excitement to my children. With the cost, space, and development benefits, we visit often.

As you seek family outing options, your next outing might be close by at your local park. In using time wisely with your family, there is no need to spend money on an entrance fee. Just give your family your time and energy. They really want you!

Need other ideas for a fun family activity, check out the event page on Facebook for new activities posted often. Have a great weekend spending time with your family. 🙂

Question: What are the favorite obstacles at your local park? Please add your answer to the comments.