There is nothing fun about being forced to stay home- nothing. But if you can turn around a day of locked seclusion into something fun- like a semi-planned Family Staycation then at least you can make the most of tough times. Just think of the things you do when you travel but don’t get to ever do “at home” like hiking, exploring new activities, and eating your favorite foods (except cooked at home for fun!)
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Stay in Place Into a Staycation
Land and Water
There are so many State and Regional parks in the USA that may still be open for daytrippers. Find the nearest one to you and make a day of exploring it by foot. If you do decide to go to a public park, please make sure to keep proper socail distancing and skip it if it’s crowded. It is not worth it.
Don’t forget about having fun with water at home. Get a kiddie pool, some water toys, and turn on the sprinklers. If you have toddlers even bathtime inside can bring the same level of joy- although probably better without the splashing or spraying!
Hydrate! While you have water on the mind, don’t forget to monitor your water intake and stay hydrated! Make sure to pack your Water Bottle(s) (18 oz. for the adults or 26 oz. for an all day excursion) for everyone- even if you’re just in your yard. For the littles this 12 oz. kid’s Yeti bottle includes a reusable straw.
Back Yard Fun
Don’t stop with water fun in your backyard; There’s all sorts of things you can do right at home!
Set up a picnic, complete with basket, blanket and reusable plates and silverware (Love that this picnic basket includes everything but the food for a family of 4- even “fancy” wine glasses!) Lay it all out for an elaborate picnic meal.
Finish your picnic off with a bonfire and a create your own s’mores buffet. Then spend dusk running around collecting fireflies or just watch the stars come into focus and see who can count the most shooting stars.
Educational
Learn the local history in your area. Read about it like you would a travel guide when planning a trip. Then create your own walking tour or join one to explore local historic places and museums. Not feeling the energy to make your own? Many cities and historical societies offer various tours. Contact your local CVB or tourism office or historical society directly to find out what’s available and when.
It’s fun for adults, but also a great educational experience for the kids. You could even create a project or scavenger hunt around your town’s history.
Given that you are basically homeschooling right now, you are probably sick of anything and everything educational this may add more stress and less fun to your “staycation” set up so definitely ignore this idea if so!
“Explore” A New Culture
A staycation doesn’t mean you can’t experience parts of a new country. Have each family member pick a country or culture then create a menu around that place. Plan for this about a week in advance so that you can get groceries on your weekly run as you probably won’t have some items on hand and even Amazon may not be stocking it.
For evening entertainment watch a movie from that place; Netflix should be able to give you ideas on and access to a movie that was created in that country! We have been watching movies for free on Amazon Prime lately.
Lemons to Lemonade
None of these things remove the fear behind why we are sheltering in place, nor does it make things better. But if it helps brighten you and your family’s day- even for one minute then you’ve succeeded. It’s not easy so give yourself time but if you put some planning into thinking positively and creating something fun- even for a moment- it will help!
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