In the quest for a simpler more creative summer, one of the key steps may be to cut (hopefully not literally) the electronic cord. Unplug, at least part of the day, and help children learn games that do not require electronic assistance. Classic Summer Games. A Less-is-More summer could not be complete without some classic … Continue reading
This is the second in a series of posts on strategies for a simpler, yet creative, summer. “Less is More #1” discussed letting children explore the world in search of a bit of adventure. Today I’d like to talk about playing with stuff. Not toys. Stuff. Every parent knows that toddlers are likely to have … Continue reading
I enjoy doing projects with kids. I especially enjoy doing projects with kids I love. And so, when I write “Family Fun” suggestions each month, they are full of activities and projects for families to do together. But the truth is, I never expect families to do most of them—I offer a selection so that … Continue reading
It is May, and even in Michigan spring seems finally to have taken hold. This has made everyone in our house very happy, including the tribe of resident cats. Sitting in a sunny window is much more fun when the window isn’t the temperature of an icicle. In their honor, this month’s family fun activities … Continue reading
Sometimes something comes across your desk and just makes your whole day. That happened to me this week when I first read about 4-year old “Mayhem,” who makes paper dresses with her mom. Fueled with paper, tape, and creativity, the duo makes dresses inspired by everything from runway favorites to a shark at the acquarium. … Continue reading
At the moment, sun in Michigan is at a premium. We’ve spent too many days in the grip of the Polar Vortex and we’re all dreaming of palm-shaded beaches. Perhaps it is my dreams of sun and sand, but this week I’ve been thinking about shadows. I’ve written about shadow activities before, so for ideas … Continue reading
It’s January. It’s Michigan. And so, as I look out my window, it’s snowing. We’re in the beginning stages of what promises to be a foot of snow, with sub-zero temperatures to follow. What could be more appropriate than family fun activities centering on snow—with a bonus activity for anyone faced with temperatures well below … Continue reading
How can anyone who cares about creativity not love this? On the chance that you missed it on Tumblr, Facebook, Good Morning America or the Huffington Post, here’s a tribute to Dinovember, the month plastic dinosaurs come to life. Dinovember is the creation of Refe and Susan Tuma, of Kansas City, MO, who wanted to … Continue reading
November, in the U.S. and Canada, is a time to celebrate gratitude. But since I wrote about family activities around Thanksgiving last year, this year I thought I’d write about one of the things for which people around the world are grateful: bread. 1. You might want to start by exploring the many varied kinds … Continue reading
One of the best things about fall in Michigan is watching the leaves change. Trees that are mostly green October 1st are brilliant with color in just a few weeks. I’ve done an earlier Family Fun post on leaf activities, so this month we’ll look at activities that focus on changing colors. 1. Of course … Continue reading
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