Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Family Fun Ideas

I did a spot of reading on some of the must-see spots in Canberra, Australia. Most of the must-sees were pretty much family oriented activities. There was ballooning and a trip to the beach amongst others. That got me into thinking how families can spend some quality and fun time together. What are the must-sees and must-dos that will appeal to families?

A love for animals? Visit the local zoo or aquarium. I am sure the whole family will enjoy the zoo outing spotting their favourite animals or learning more about marine life at the aquarium. My sister took my nephews on a farm trip recently. They got to see farm life with all sorts of interesting and fun activities for adults and children. There was an animal feeding session for the children. They visited different types of farms ranging from farms rearing chickens to those cultivating fresh produce. The travelers got to ride in a farm truck which is really rare for city kids these days.

There is bound to be a museum of some kind in every major cities of the world. Take a trip to the local museum where you will learn more about the country, its people, history and achievements. Most museums have guided tours that offer a great learning experience for both adults and children. There are also special museums showcasing different interests, ranging from the arts and history to maritime, automobile and sports.

Visit a local market for fresh produce. Take in the sights, sounds and bites at a local market. Introduce your children to the different types of fresh produce we have in the country. Most modern markets are relatively clean and well-maintained with modern facilities. Some markets have shops selling clothing and books and some even have restaurants catering to hungry shoppers eager to take a break from the hectic shopping.

Organize a barbeque or cookout for the whole family. Get everyone involved in the cooking. Have the children pick up simple cooking skills like cleaning the vegetables, peeling potatoes, seasoning and skewering the meat for the barbeque and preparing a fruit punch. A friend of mine attended a huge neighbourhood cookout with her family. The cookout was an annual thing and a way for families to bond in that neighbourhood. Great way to break the ice especially if you have new families who have just moved to the neighbourhood.

What are some of the family fun ideas that appeal to you and your family?

5 comments:

Shireen Loh said...

Its a good idea re : visiting the zoo . My lil one is too young at the moment, have to wait at least another 6 months to a year...but yes, family outings are a great way to spend quality time and bond with each other.

jesie said...

I have not been to Canberra. It's so nice to live near the beach. You are so lucky. I need to drive 8 hours to the nearest beach. There is no aquarium or zoo nearby.

As for me, I see what others enjoy in my neighborhood. I go for walks with my neighbors and sometimes exchange food or have cookouts. The neighboring kids visit those who have swimming pools. I also meet more people at the church.

My Bug Life said...

Thanks Jesie...I was in Canberra many years ago but didn't really have any special memories of that place...except for the australian national museum.

As for me, I would like try out the farm trip...hehhhe have never been on a farm truck before.

Chiew Sim said...

Hey the farm trip sound quite nice...where is it located?

My Bug Life said...

My sis joined this home school groupie and they have regular trips in and around the country. Let me get the numbers for you and shireen. She's interested too.