Summer Hobbies To Try With The Kids

Collaborative post by another author. How we spend time as a family together now can have a much deeper impact on your family’s future than you might realise. Families that take the time to bond and spend time together now, rather than spending all day on separate screens, can enjoy a much stronger bond. If you want to experience the benefits of family time then here are some hobbies that you should consider getting into with your family and the benefits of each.

A child pushing a pretend lawnmower with a normal lawnmower in the background
Hobbies that the whole family can enjoy are great for bonding

Gardening


Gardening is a wonderful family hobby that brings multiple benefits. Engaging in gardening allows families to spend quality time together outdoors, nurturing plants and watching them grow. This activity teaches children about responsibility and the importance of caring for the environment. It also provides a great way to get some physical exercise through digging, planting, and weeding. Gardening can be a relaxing and therapeutic experience, helping to reduce stress and improve mental health. The joy of harvesting homegrown vegetables and fruits is another rewarding aspect, promoting healthier eating habits by incorporating fresh produce into meals.


Hiking


Hiking is an exhilarating family activity that offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. Exploring trails and natural landscapes together encourages physical fitness, helping to build endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health. It also fosters a sense of adventure and curiosity in children, as they discover new plants, animals, and geological formations. Hiking in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood, making it an excellent way to unwind and bond as a family. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to teach children about environmental conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats.


Cooking


Cooking as a family can be a delightful and educational experience. This hobby allows family members to work together to create delicious meals, fostering teamwork and communication skills. Cooking at home encourages healthier eating habits by allowing control over ingredients and portion sizes. It also introduces children to different cuisines and cultures, broadening their culinary horizons and teaching them valuable life skills. The process of preparing and enjoying a meal together creates lasting memories and strengthens family bonds. Sites like https://www.netmums.com/ are full of recipes that are perfect for kids to try, to make sure that you’re able to start them off with easier options.

A child holding a Origami chatterbox
There are many benefits to origami and it can be fun to do as a family

Origami


Origami, the art of paper folding, is a unique and engaging hobby that can be enjoyed by family members of all ages. This activity requires patience and precision, helping to improve concentration and fine motor skills, as shown at www.origami.org. It also stimulates creativity and problem-solving abilities, as individuals learn to transform a simple sheet of paper into intricate designs. Origami can be a calming and meditative practice, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Sharing this hobby as a family fosters a sense of accomplishment and pride in creating beautiful paper artwork together.


Cycling


Cycling is a fun and active family hobby that promotes physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Riding bikes together is an excellent way to explore the local area, whether it's through parks, trails, or city streets. Cycling helps to build strength, coordination, and cardiovascular health. It also encourages outdoor activity and reduces screen time for children. Family cycling trips can be both an adventure and a bonding experience, creating shared memories and a sense of togetherness. Additionally, cycling is an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, teaching children the importance of sustainable living.


Photography


Photography is a versatile and creative hobby that can be enjoyed by the entire family. This activity encourages individuals to observe the world around them more closely, capturing moments and scenes that might otherwise go unnoticed. Photography helps to develop artistic skills and a keen eye for detail. It also provides an opportunity to learn about technology and editing software, enhancing technical abilities. Sharing a passion for photography can bring family members together, as they explore different subjects and settings. Creating a family photo album or digital gallery can be a fun project that preserves cherished memories for years to come.


A child helping to put up a tent
Camping is a great way to spend time with your family


Camping


Camping is an adventurous family hobby that offers a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and reconnect with nature. Spending time outdoors in a campsite allows families to bond over activities like setting up tents, building campfires, and cooking meals together. Camping promotes teamwork and problem-solving skills, as well as an appreciation for the natural world. It provides a break from technology and encourages physical activity through hiking, swimming, or exploring the surroundings. The experience of sleeping under the stars and sharing stories around a campfire creates lasting memories and strengthens family ties.


Fishing


Fishing is a relaxing and rewarding family hobby that teaches patience and perseverance. This activity allows family members to spend quality time together by the water, enjoying the tranquility of nature. Fishing helps to develop hand-eye coordination and an understanding of aquatic ecosystems. It also provides an opportunity to teach children about sustainable practices and the importance of respecting wildlife. The thrill of catching a fish, regardless of its size, brings a sense of achievement and excitement. Whether fishing from a boat, dock, or shore, this hobby creates a peaceful and enjoyable family outing.


Volunteering


Volunteering as a family is a meaningful and impactful hobby that fosters a sense of community and compassion. Participating in volunteer activities together, such as helping at a local food bank, cleaning up a park, or supporting a charity event, teaches children the value of giving back and making a difference. Volunteering promotes teamwork, empathy, and social responsibility. It also provides an opportunity to meet new people and learn about different aspects of the community. The shared experience of helping others can be incredibly rewarding and brings families closer together, instilling a lifelong commitment to service and kindness.


How you decide to spend time with your family is up to you. Try to find something that speaks to everyone’s interests and make sure that your choices are age-appropriate for them. Trying out each of them to see which sticks is a fun strategy, too. What matters, more than anything, is that you’re spending time with each other.

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