Des Moines Spring Break Staycation
Spring break is nearly here which means sunshine, warmer weather, and kids home from school. For many families, the week will mean undertaking the daunting task of keeping tiny humans entertained. Try these budget-friendly ideas for planning a fun-filled staycation. Each day has a unique theme to follow along or mix and match for a week that fits your family.
Move It Monday
Let’s go play! Des Moines and the surrounding communities offer a plethora of free playgrounds, parks, and trails to explore. The Lauridsen Skate Park downtown is the largest open skatepark in the nation and a great place to take kids with skateboards, bikes, roller skates, and more. Looking for something to do at home? Get creative and make an obstacle course out of household objects and furniture. For added fun, have timed races or even turn it into a family tournament. Then crank up the music and have a wild and carefree dance party!
Tinker Tuesday
Kids learn through doing and by getting involved with hands-on activities, so tinker Tuesday is all about STEAM experiments. Hands-on activities involve kids and get their minds engaged. Many experiments can be created using basic household items like baking soda, vinegar, oil, or effervescent cold tablets. Tinkering can come in all forms and provides a great opportunity to get creative. Something as simple as glued popsicle sticks to a piece of cardboard can create hours of fun as a marble run maze!
Wondering and Wandering on Wednesday
Ask your kiddos what topic they may be wondering about and then head to your local library to check out a book or two on the topic to learn something new and satisfy curious minds. While you’re there, sign up for a library card if you don’t have one, and check out the Library Adventure Pass for several great local places to visit and explore. When you’re ready to head outside, download a free Geocaching app to expand your hunt to the world’s playground. Geocaching is a fantastic family activity that intersects exercise, creativity, and adventure.
Thoughtful Thursday
Thinking of others and giving back to the community is the theme for today. Volunteering, giving back, and paying it forward can come in a variety of shapes and sizes; take time with your kids to reflect on how you can best be of service. Consider getting out for a walk in your neighborhood or favorite park and picking up trash. Decorate and leave a thank you note in your mailbox for the postal carrier or put a thank you sign in your yard for the waste management teams as they make their weekly rounds. As you’re out and about, offer a smile and hold the door for others or let them go ahead of you in line. Thank public service helpers as you see them serving our community. Volunteer at a local non-profit organization or donate if you are able and encourage others to do the same.
Family and Friends Friday
Get out the craft supplies to make a homemade card or two for a beloved grandparent, a distant aunt or uncle, or another special person. Make plans to deliver it in person or send it in the mail for a happy surprise! Have an age-appropriate conversation about what it means to be a good friend/peer, how to make friends, how to patch up a friendship that has fallen out, how to stand up for yourself and others, or how to repair a damaged relationship. All About Friends, available through Usborne Books and More, is a favorite in our household and can provide a lot of great conversation starters. Then, put those friendship skills to the test and reach out to a friend for a play date. Any of the ideas from earlier in the week would make for a great play date activity!
However, you spend your Spring break, enjoy the journey, and have fun making memories! Tell us in the comments how you will be spending your week.
