When the warmer weather arrives it will bring more opportunities for family adventures. A day out in the spring is an ideal way to spend quality time together, and you’ll hopefully get to see a few wild critters as well. If you’ve got young kids, you’ll know these sorts of days out can take some planning, no matter how spontaneous you like to be. Even if the weather changes and you only decide to go the day before, it’s best to be prepared. Here are fifteen top tips for a family day out in the spring.
Do your research
Find out as much beforehand. You could try doing an online search for day trip ideas near you. Double-check if places have opening times or need reservations in advance even if you’re only planning on exploring a national trust site. Take any family requirements into consideration, for example, baby changing, toilets, catering options, and other facilities. This will help you to avoid any headaches on the day. Be sure of your route as well and use GPS. Keep an eye out for traffic or weather warnings that could disrupt your journey, even if you’re only staying local.
Secret schedule
Being spontaneous and fun parents might impress the kids but you should at least have a rough schedule in mind. Plan where you’re going including points to make stops to use any necessary facilities. This way you’re prepared if you get asked any questions. You can use scheduling apps to help keep you organised so you don’t have to worry about remembering all the details.
Get in touch with nature
The best part about a family day trip in spring is that nature will be in bloom again. You can go wildlife spotting and enjoy budding flowers and blossoming trees. Even if you don’t see any animals you could try simply taking in the sights, sounds, and smells around you in the woods. This is a mindfulness practice known as forest bathing and has many wellbeing benefits for children and adults alike. Here some examples of the best places for forest bathing.
Have them do a project
If you’d like your kids to develop an interest in ecology you could have them do a little project. This could be anything from a scavenger hunt to sketching their favourite plants and wildlife. Here are a few more nature study project ideas for inspiration. A fun project is a great way for them to learn more about animal life and the environment.
Leave painted rocks
Another project idea for and fans of arts and crafts is to join the painted rock craze. People decorate pebbles and rocks and leave them for others to find at different spots in the countryside. It’s a nice treasure hunt type idea for children and you can encourage them to take part too. You’d probably want to organise a rock painting afternoon on a rainy day beforehand.
Watch out for the weather
One problem in the spring is that the weather can be very unpredictable. Be prepared for all possibilities and take waterproofs with you just in case. If you’re wrapped up properly the weather needn’t be a problem, you can still enjoy a family outing on a mild, yet damp spring day.
Have a contingency plan in place
If you’re concerned about the weather on the day, it might be an idea to have a contingency plan in place, even if this means staying in. You’ve planned a fun day together so you should still try to spend some quality time as a family. If you’re unlucky you could have craft day at home or play games together. If you’re traveling a bit further away from home, think of indoor places you can go to if you get caught in the rain.
Dress for the occasion
Layers are ideal in spring weather. The temperature will likely go up and down throughout the day so you’ll need layers you can take off. Plan what you’re going to wear according to the activity and dress up a little if need be. Look for an outfit that’s stylish but comfortable. Stone Island for Men has a great range of practical wear that you can get away with if you need to look a bit smarter as well. Team up your layers with a pair of sturdy waterproof boots or wellies for the kids. If you’re going out walking all day, potentially in the mud, you’ll need protective footwear.
Write a list and pack in advance
The best way to stay on top of things with clothing and gear is to write a packing checklist and get everything sorted the night before. This way you can grab your things and go in the morning and won’t have to panic or rush. Don’t forget to include things like a hand sanitiser and a mini first aid kit if you’re going exploring. If you have babies and toddlers pack their accessories and prepare bottles and feeding portions.
Pack a picnic
If you want to save money on your spring day out, why not prepare a picnic for the whole family? Hopefully, the weather will permit you to enjoy lunch together al fresco. There are plenty of fun picnic recipes you can try to add a touch of excitement to the standard sandwiches. Take plenty of water so you can stay hydrated on your trip. Pack a flask of hot tea or coffee especially if you’re going on a long drive.
Let them pack a toy
One way to keep travel fun for the kids is to let them pack their own little bag, or at least a toy or two. They may need a couple of items for entertainment to keep them busy in the car or if it rains. If you let them pack their own bag they’ll be more enthusiastic about the day out. It’ll also be very useful if you are planning on doing mini nature or craft projects. If you’re taking your dog with you pack them their own bag as well. They’ll need a water bowl and supply, plus a portion of food for the day. Be prepared to clean up after them as well. Dogs can get tired or hot in the car so make sure they have the opportunity to get some rest during the day. Double-check the places you’re visiting are dog-friendly in advance just in case.
Don’t overdo it
Sometimes with children, less is more so don’t try and cram in too many activities for just one day. This could even be stressful and tiring otherwise. The important thing to spend time together and have fun rather than visit as many places as possible within a time limit. Try going to the local woods, or looking for hidden gems near you to explore. Simplicity is often the key to a stress-free family day out. The spring weather will hopefully be pleasant enough that you won’t need to plan many things to do apart from getting lost in nature.
Plan loo breaks
Research your route and plan loo breaks on the way. Make sure you always know where there are toilets available so you don’t get caught short with a frustrated child at any moment. Plan breaks into your schedule for the day so that everyone is comfortable. If you’re spending a family day out with a baby ensure you have baby changing options. Most public bathrooms and service stations should be fully kitted out.
Nap times for little ones
Babies and younger children will likely get tired at some point during the day and you will need to factor in nap times. You can check this nap chart by age to remind yourself how often they’ll need to sleep for and for how long. If you are going out with little ones it’s probably better not to make it too long a day. They’ll surely fall asleep on the way home regardless, but you don’t want them getting fussy and fatigued too early on.
Focus on quality time
Remember the importance of quality time with your children and this is what a family day should be about. When you’re planning activities, try to be as inclusive as possible and take into consideration the needs of each member of the family. This will help you to ensure everyone has a good time on the day. Spending quality time together is very beneficial. It helps to strengthen your parental bond and foster a loving environment for your children to grow up in.
Spring is possibly the best time of year for a family day out. The weather is fresh and crisp compared to the hotter summer months so you can get lots of walking done. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get back in touch with nature. As long as you’re organised, you can make it as stress-free as possible. Get the whole family out together this spring and build memories you’ll cherish forever.
