As the chill of winter begins to thaw, the promise of spring floats in the air, and school is paused for a week, March in Ontario presents a unique opportunity to refresh and renew family bonds.
Whether your family members are young children eager for adventure, teenagers seeking excitement (but only the "cool" kind), adults in need of a rest, or anything in between, we put together a curated list of refreshing family-time ideas suitable for any age and stage, perfect for enjoying together in Ontario this March Break.
1. A New Nature Walks
Embrace the end of winter and the beginning of spring with nature hikes or walks in your local area. Just don't pick the same old spot (unless you love it!) Ask friends or family where they love to walk, and explore somewhere new!
Landscapes start to transform in March, and exploring local parks or conservation areas can be a fantastic way to witness this change. For the right ages, throw in a free printable spring scavenger hunt and prizes for completion!
2. Sugar Shack Train
Map out three local sugar shacks in your area and plan a sugar shack train! Consider yourselves syrup connoisseurs; taste the syrup, explore the trails, try the maple toffee. After visiting all three, take a vote on most favourite to least favourite! Maybe you even buy a jug from the winner and make a pancake dinner?
3. Mix-it-Up Board Game Marathon.
Dig out your favourite board games OR swap games with another family for something new! Let each player choose a favourite snack that becomes part of the party, set digital distraction ground rules for all players, and go for it! Board games can give you opportunities for bonding over shared experiences and friendly competition, and the snacks make it extra special.
4. Craft and Art Projects
Use materials you already have at home to engage in craft and art projects together. From painting and drawing to building models out of recycled materials, the possibilities are endless. These activities not only foster creativity but also can be tailored to suit any age.
5. Cooking and Baking Together
Before you think we have to cook almost every day already... make this one an event. Choose a recipe everyone loves to enjoy. Take a poll. It could be a dessert or an entree or a mix of both.
Since cooking is a practical skill that can be a lot of fun to learn at any age, push where your family skills are at and allow one another to try something new. Let the 3-year-old cut up apples, who cares if they're perfect? Let the 7-year-old peel and dice the carrots. Let the 14-year-old read and instruct the recipe steps. Whether it's making homemade bread, a new dinner recipe, or baking cookies, or whatever! This activity is especially rewarding because you get to enjoy the delicious results together -- and if it's not delicious, you get to laugh together.
6. Family & Friends Fishbowl Night
Dedicate an evening either with your immediate family or invite other friends or family to join! Pop the popcorn (or put out the goldfish or swedish fish candy!) and play Fishbowl. Fishbowl is a fun, free, easy-to-learn and easy-to-play game for all!
7. DIY Science Experiments
Turn your kitchen into a science lab with DIY experiments that require basic household items. From making a baking soda and vinegar volcano to exploring density with a homemade lava lamp, these activities are educational and fun for curious minds.
Not sure where to start? Find a couple of miscellaneous ingredients and ask Chat GPT (it's free to sign up) what experiment you can do with them. Level it up for teens, let them choose the ingredients and ask Chat GPT!
8. Explore Free Local Events
Keep an eye out for free events in your community. Many libraries, community centers, and museums offer free days or events that are perfect for family outings. A quick Google search in your area might yield results you never thought of. Just don't be afraid to try.
Even just a visit to the local library to check out books and movies can be an adventure, when is the last time you visited your local library? If the older kids are moaning over this one, let them set up their own library account. They might be surprised by what's available!
Making Memories Without Spending Much
March in Ontario doesn’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. By taking advantage of the simple pleasures and the resources you already have, you can create lasting memories with your family.
These activities not only refresh and renew family bonds but also remind us that the best things in life truly are free.
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This article is written compliments of Covey Wellness Centre – To contact us, please submit a form on our Contact page. You can book an appointment or a free, no-obligation consultation, or inquire about our products and services. We also offer group psychotherapy upon request.
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