The Canada Strong pass is back, offering discounts and free admission to various places across Canada. Yay! But it also means discounted rail travel for kids and youth.

The price of gas is going up and the train is a relaxing way for all family members to travel. In our car, three of us are usually sleeping while Andy is driving. He enjoys the train very much.

Kids 17 and under travel for FREE with an adult. Youth 18-25 can get 25% off pricing.

A round-trip between Ottawa and Toronto can cost a family of four, with two adults and two children under 17 around $250. Seriously. And then once you are in Toronto, dropped of at Union Station, you can plan days of fun at the Aquarium, seeing the Blue Jays and more.

For years, I have shouted about how much I love taking the train.

It hasn’t changed. I frequently use it for work travel, but also with my family. In February, my daughter and I hopped the train for an exciting, brief, trip to Toronto for a concert. We couldn’t have made it happen without that mode of transportation.

Your older kiddo (under 25) can save too with a 25% off discount.

Travelling on Via Rail for free? Even better. Here’s how:

1. You need to sign up for the Via Preference points program. That means everytime you travel, you earn points. That train trip for the concert? Free with points (and thanks for a sale they had).
2. With the Canada Strong Pass, children 17 and younger travel FREE from mid-June until September.

However, I do have to say that unfortunately, there is a chance the train will have delays. Sometimes 15 minutes, other times 60+. It’s not ideal, and so I would recommend planning connections and events accordingly. When this happens (longer than a 60 minute delay) you are credited back from Via.

With the soaring prices of gas, it’s worth considering an alternate way to travel. I find it relaxing, comfortable and convenient.

Happy travels!

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1- Go to the Movies

There are usually family friendly movies playing and it’s a good time to get caught up on what’s out!

2- Find a sugar bush

This won’t help if you are trying to avoid the crowds this weekend, but it’s still maple syrup season and I’m not sure there is anything better than fresh syrup (or maple candy. Drool).

3- Go for a nature walk

Pull on the rubber boots (and splash pants) and head for a nature walk on a local path. If the snow has started melting in your area, it may mean a messy, muddy walk, but it also means you can chat with the kids about the emerging plant life, the animals coming out of hibernation and more.

4- Go for a drive

We like to hit the road in one direction or another for short drives on weekends like this. We often end up somewhere to eat (or at a bakery) and explore some of our favourite neighbourhoods and town we haven’t been to in the winter because of timing or weather.

Tip: Black Walnut Bakery in Cumberland has plenty of outdoor seating so if we get a nice-ish day, it’s a treat to be able to enjoy a hot beverage outside! Just be mindful of which days they are open!

But food doesn’t have to be involved! Going somewhere new and different can be fun.

5- Indulge in a treat

Sure, snow may be on the ground, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have ice cream. Easter weekend often kicks off our upcoming ‘warm weather’ ice cream addiction. If you have a favourite haunt, why not indulge in a special long weekend treat together.

Pro tip: Cafe Latte Cino in Orleans has a waffle on their menu that is topped with gelato. A perfect combination (at least, my kids seem to think so!)

6- Try a new game

Long weekends are a great time for families to reconnect, certainly in our house with everyone being so busy with work, school and extracurriculars, the slower paced long weekends give us a chance to try a new board game or video game. Any excuse to spend some extra time together!

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For the past few years, that hasn’t been the case, for a variety of reasons. The kids have different committments, we are saving up for summer travel, and so on. It changes as they get older (and go to university!)

My youngest will be off and plans to enjoy some time to relax, hang with friends and sleep in. I’ll enjoy sleeping in a bit.

But that doesn’t mean we won’t look around the City for opportunities.

If you find yourself wondering what to do with the kids for March Break, or want some ideas to make special plans, I’ve gathered up some options.

Remember – this is meant to be a break. If it feels like a lot of work for everyone, or manufacturing ‘special’ time, try whatever works for you and your family!

March Break Activities in Ottawa

Visit the Mall

I used to love taking the kids to the mall when they were younger (I still do!). The Food Court had something for everyone, we could wonder around indoors and stay warm and dry, and it was a good way to pass the time.

Because of March Break, many of the malls usually offer special programming. Visit your local one to determine if there’s anything happening. At Place d’Orleans, you can meet Riley Racoon from the Ottawa 67s one day, or build with LEGO another.

Visit a Museum

Ottawa’s Museums are amazing. I’ve talked about this a lot and they were always a go-to when my kids were younger. The truth? We still love going to museums (the eldest teen especially)!

Ingenium Museums (Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and Canada Science and Technology Museum) all have March Break programming.

Not sure where to go? Start with The Farm (Canada Agriculture and Food Museum) – it’s an awesome place for little ones to be in and outside and the animals are always a hit. If my kids were little that’s where I would start. (Although all the museums have been faves of ours!)

Or, take in the Canadian Museum of Nature or Canadian Museum of History (which includes the Children’s Museum!)

Visit the Library

I still love going to the library after years and years of library visits with the kids. It’s the perfect place to spend time time – borrowing books, video games or movies. But also the Ottawa Public Library has programming for kids and teens all week long.

The library programming is also free!

Try a mini vacation nearby

It’s no secret I love a hotel getaway. And there are so many opportunities nearby to enjoy, even during the colder months.

Last February, we went back to Chateau Montebello and they always have so many activities for families. If you go for March Break, look into outdoor skating, snowshoeing, tubing and more outside, plus curling, swimming and games inside.

You can also day trip (or spend the night!) at Parc Omega. My kids (now teens) always ask to return here.

Want more staycation ideas? This post is a good starting place.

Play with your Food

Activities that you can do at home can be fun, unique and memory making without having to bundle everyone up to head to a destination.

Order decorate-your-own cupcakes or cookies from The Cupcake Lounge or make a fancy hot chocolate bar. Try a new local cafe!

March break is the perfect time to try some new recipes as a family too! Pull out a recipe from your childhood and recreate it together or for a meal. Bonus if you have teens: They never get tired of hearing you start stories with ‘when I was younger’

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So you want to do something special for Valentine’s Day, but prefer to stay home. Or maybe you have to stay home since finding a babysitter or heading out for the night can be difficult and expensive. Whatever the reason, keep reading for some delicious at-home take out ideas:

Andy and I used to go out for Valentine’s Day. It was a guaranteed date night and always meant good food. That didn’t change when we had the kids, although going out for a Wednesday night exclusive menu wasn’t as easy, so instead, we started bringing Valentine’s Day to our own dinner table.

We would set up and enjoy a fancy dinner when babies went to bed, or toddlers and preschoolers joined us at the table (with their own sweet menu). That tradition has continued for most years.

READ: How to make a sweet, memorable Valentine’s Day as a family

Sometimes it’s a fancy take-out meal from one of our fave restaurants, or pizza, or something quick. Sometimes we make it at home.

But the goal is just to come around the table, say cheers to our own little romantic story and life we have created and are working for, and be with those we love.

However, that’s just our experience. I know that Valentine’s Day looks different for many. Maybe you’ll have friends and family over, or maybe you are a single parent (or will be solo) this year. Maybe you just want to celebrate yourself with self-love and a delicious meal. I love that.

Many of these take out options are offered for one adult with child menus added on, or for larger groups when ordered in multiples.

Whatever your plans, if you want to start your own at-home Valentine’s Day tradition (with the kids, or when they are sleeping) here are some places in Ottawa to order from.

You’ll want to open each link to see their full menu, I only mention bits of them sometimes (and hardly do them justice). Also, many of these will likely sell out!

Where to get a take-out Valentine’s Day meal in Ottawa

Epicuria

This has been our go-to for many Valentine’s Days in years past. We would set up a fancy dinner table for the four of us and everything. At this time, I don’t see their menu but keep checking (and if nothing else, plan to go in for one of their many delicious meals or desserts)

Pelican Grill

Pelican Grill is offering their lobster dinner meal that includes two starters, sides and dessert (with local delivery or pick up available) and it’s one to impress. Just reheat and enjoy! We’ve actually ordered this for New Year’s Eve in the past, and love it. This splurge from the sea will have you talking all night long.

Nonna’s Famous Pizza

Cooking together, or with the kids, is a wonderful way to spend Valentine’s Day. Check out Nonna’s Famous Pizza to order a pizza kit to make at home.

Red Apron

Why do I write these articles? I just end up hungry and wanting everything. I want all the menus. Red Apron is serving up a menu option on both Thursday the 13th, and Friday the 14th. Add on the special menu for the kids too!

Fruit Couture

Your dessert and gift needs can be taken care of at Fruit Couture which is perfect if you want to send a gift, or enjoy it at home.

The Piggy Market

If you know charcuterie is what you want, you can also check out The Piggy Market’s Charcuterie Boards. This is a dinner sized portion with 4 meats, 3 cheeses, crostini and other bites. The Piggy Market always has amazing food, peanut and nut free, so while you are there, check out their other offerings too (like the Ramen). Delivery is also available.

Next

Maybe you prefer to tuck the kids in bed before digging into a delicious meal. I’ve been there, done that. If you are looking for an at-home experience that is unique, check out the Valentine’s Day at-home menu from Next. Each all-in-one meal box for 2 (for pick up or delivery) has a 7 course meal (that is not a typo – seven), extra little bites, wine and cocktails. There are instructions and a video from Chef Michael Blackie so you can prep, plate and say cheers! Delivery is free and extends West to Carleton Place and East to Orleans. Plus, you can order for the 13th to the 15th.

Curated by Beckta

We have ordered from there MANY times over the past couple of years and can confidentally say everything is delicious. You’ll get a restaurant meal that requires very little preparation and heating up at home. We love these boxes.

I hope whatever you decide to do (if you decide to order in) you enjoy the evening. Or at the very least, get yourself from chocolate and enjoy that 😉 And no, I haven’t made our decision yet but I need to order soon!

READ: Last Minute Valentine’s Day activities to do with the kids

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It will be perfect for harder-to-shop-for people on your list, someone who you know needs to take an extra minute to spoil themselves, or for when you just want to support Canadian to give your friends, family, clients and others.

*this post is not sponsored, however, some brands have sent me items to consider for inclusion. All opinions are my own.

With the holiday season upon us, you may be like me and writing down ideas as you discover them when shopping online or at the stores.

I love shopping local markets and shops in the Ottawa area, but also online across Canada. It’s been a focus of mine for some time and I love that there is more interest in support Canadian makers, creators, and suppliers this year.

This gift guide is for people who you may find difficult to shop for, or who you want to give a little ‘thinking of you’ gift to. I’m focusing on comfort, calm and cozy and you’ll love knowing that you are supporting Canadian businesses.

Is this just a gift list of stuff I want? Maybe.

Canadian Holiday Gifts For Comfort and Joy

Laykhause Candles

Set the mood and ambiance with a candle. I LOVE setting up candles around my bath (I’m a huge fan of a long soak). There’s something calming about the flame and the scent. This cracker gift set from Laykhause not only is gorgeous to gift but comes with four mini candles in lake-inspired scents. The candles are plant-based soy wax.

These were gifted to me to try and I’ve been lighting the Boreal one for many many tubs and it’s still going. One reason I love the smaller size for bath time is because you don’t have to burn it as long before blowing it out.

Gift idea: Laykhaus Forest Collection 2025 Cracker (there are other options too!)

Inoki Bathhouse

Stay with me, I’m still talking about baths. I told you I love them! But imagine creating a bath ritual experience that helps you rejuvenate and unwind? I came across Inoki Bathhouse and feel like this would be such an amazing gift.

The Heritage Bath gifts create a unique experience. They come with tea bath blends to help you unwind and connect back with yourself. There’s even a code to discover curated music and breathwork.

Gift Idea: Mountain Fog: Deep Sleep and Muscle Relief set

Mave and Chez Slippers

I’m in my comfort with a side of indulgence era and love the look of the Mave and Chez Slippers. Cozy comfort for at home with the ability to wear them out. Ethically made, these slippers looking inviting and sophisticated and the insoles are washable. Choose from a mule or classic loafer.

Gift idea: Both the Audrey and the Maya look amazing. (I’m probably a size 7 fyi lol)

Oh Color Me

While we are talking about calming and serene gift ideas, why not create a little colouring book gift set from Oh Color Me? These colouring books have sweet images that are fun and enjoyable without feeling overwhelming. Perfect for someone looking to have some quiet time to themselves or wants less time on their phone.

Gift idea: Mini Colouring Book – Calming Scenes

Nurture With Botanics Tea

There is nothing more calming, relaxing and soothing than tea (sorry coffee. I love you, but tea is my go-to for comfort). Gift a locally sourced, small-batch tea from Nuture with Botanics (and Ottawa area company!). I turn to the Soothing Lemon when I feel under the weather, but there are many choices for gifting.

Gift idea: Mix and Match with their Holiday Gift bundle.

Encircled Dressy Sweatpants

My go-to pant for at home, dressing up, existing, is the Encircle Dressy Sweatpant. You can also get the dressy sweatshirt (how don’t I have this yet??) but trust me when I say this is a gift that will last and last. Plus, this is an item that’s all about versatile comfort. I can wear these to an event with a blazer, or while lounging around on the couch with a book or binging Christmas movies.

Gift idea: If you know their size, get the dressy sweatpant. If you are unsure, a gift card works!

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I’m so excited to share that the Ten Thousand Villages Festival Sale is returning to Ottawa at the Ottawa Mennonite Church. You may remember this sale as a yearl

If you’ve been a long time reader, you’ll know that I’ve shared about the Festival before. I loved shopping at the Ottawa Ten Thousand Villages locations when they were open. The Festival Sale became one of my kick-off holiday gift shopping events. I also got treats for the home (hot chocolate and stocking stuffers), gifts for my mother-in-law, mom, friends, and more.

There are still decorations all over my house from Ten Thousand Villages.

This reindeer container that we use for pistachios? A Christmas classic.

Fairtrade Shopping for the Holidays

Now, Ten Thousand Villages in Cobourg is teaming up with Bunyaad Rugs to return to the Ottawa Mennonite Church (who will have baked goods and borscht for sale on the Saturday).

At the sale, you’ll be able to shop for fair trade coffee, tea, spices, and items made by artisans from dozens of countries.

Save the date, plan to shop with intention and enjoy the return of this popular event!

Keep up to date and set a reminder on the Facebook event page!

I’m going to share the full press release with you because there’s so much great stuff in it:

Ten Thousand Villages was a fixture of Ottawa’s Westboro neighbourhood for more than 20 years. In January 2020, Ten Thousand Villages Canada announced its closure, and independently-operated stores needed to choose whether to continue or not. “In Ottawa, we were looking at a new lease on our space which would have increased our rent in addition to the uncertainty that the national organization’s closure was placing on our supply chain,” says Kathy Neufeld, a former assistant manager of the Ten Thousand Villages Ottawa store and one of the organizers of this year’s event. “We couldn’t in good conscience keep operating and hope it would work out.”

Ten Thousand Villages in Cobourg was one of a few independent stores to make a different choice. The store weathered the COVID pandemic and supply uncertainties and has continued to thrive in its small-town retail shop and at a growing number of off-site events. In 2022, the store hired a former Ottawa volunteer as a part-time assistant manager.

“Even in Cobourg, we knew that there was a great tradition of a seasonal sale at the Ottawa Mennonite Church, and we are eager to bring fair trade back to Ottawa for the weekend,” says Derrick Cunningham, manager of the Cobourg store.

In addition to craft and food products from Ten Thousand Villages, fair-trade rug organization Bunyaad will be at the sale with a selection of hand-knotted, fair-trade rugs. Since it was founded in the early 1960’s, Bunyaad rug-making supports 850 families in 100 communities in Pakistan. And the Mennonite Church will be hosting a baked-goods and borscht sale at the Church on Saturday.

WHAT: Fair trade holiday sale featuring crafts, food and rugs.
WHO: Ten Thousand Villages Cobourg and Bunyaad Rugs
WHERE: Ottawa Mennonite Church, 1830 Kilborn Avenue, Ottawa
WHEN: 3-8 pm Friday, November 7; 10 am-4 pm Saturday, November 8

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If you are still considering getting at-home turkey dinner in Ottawa, here are some places to check out that are offering a turkey takeway – please note, some will feed one, a couple, a family of 4-6 and larger families so you’ll need to do some research depending on your needs!

Also, be sure to account for leftovers Or at least, that’s what I recommend.

Yup, this is last minute but that’s ok! You can still change your mind about doing it yourself. There are no rules!

please note – I’m listing places in Ottawa that are offering turkey meals, but they may be sold out (of some portions at least). You’ll have to check to find your fave, but it’s also good to save the list of these businesses for other meals, catering, snacks etc. And as always, follow them on social or join their newsletters to keep in the know!

You’ll need to heat and serve these meals.

Turkey/Thanksgiving Dinner Takeaway in Ottawa

Brookstreet

This is a ‘we have a big family’ dinner order – their turkey meal serves 10! You will need to add a dessert if you like!

Epicuria

Thanksgiving Dinner for 8. I’ve ordered (often) from here and always love it. This meal includes turkey breast (not a whole turkey), dressing, sides, and a pumpkin pie!

Occo Kitchen

The order deadline for a takeaway meal for 5 or 10 is coming up! But we’ve had their Christmas dinner turkey takeaway and loved everything.

The Piggy Market

Grab a solo (or as many as you need) turkey dinner from The Piggy Market (a nut-free bakery too!) which includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables and gravy!

Curated by Beckta

Thanksgiving dinner, for one or two, with or without wine. This offering includes turkey, stuffing, vegetables and more for your main, but begins with butternut squash soup and finishes with pecan pie.

Where to buy dessert for Thanksgiving in Ottawa

Are you in charge of bringing dessert to your family or friend gathering? Here are some places to check out that have seasonal offerings (and yes, pumpkin pie!)

Epicuria

There are so many delicious bites in stock!

The Piggy Market

Order online for pick up or to grab at the Orleans Farmers’ Market. Yes, you can get pumpkin pie but also grab some brownies (trust me). (ps – you may be able to find fresh turkey to cook here too!)

Black Walnut Bakery

Preorder online to avoid items selling out. I love that they offer a small and large size for pie so you can customize your dessert offerings based on guests.

Life of Pie

Grab your pumpkin pie at Life of Pie! (or another kind – they have many!)

Cookies by Kat

Don’t want to bring a pie? How about stuffed cookies? I can tell you right now (since I’ve had them), these will change everything you know about cookies.

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Either way, there’s plenty to do to squeeze a bit more out of the summer over the Labour Day long weekend in Ottawa.

*note, some events are only on Saturday/Sunday while others are open on the holiday Monday too.

Make plans for the long weekend in Ottawa and have some fun!

Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival (FMG)

Until August 31, enjoy the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival with headliners like Flo Rida and Alessia Cara, plus family-friendly activities (most of which are free!)

Visit a Market

I loved taking the kids to markets when they were younger. There’s something about connecting them with the local makers and farmers that was impactful. Plus, there’s always some delicious food to be found! It’s a great way to head outdoors.

Check out Ottawa Farmers’ Markets and more.

Summer isn’t Scary at Saunders Farm

The Summer Maze Days at Saunders Farm conclude this weekend. While you may be used to visiting during the haunting season, summer is a great time to go! There’s a splash pad, slide, jumping pillows wagon rides, great food and summer memories waiting to be made.

Doors Open at Rideau Hall

Enjoy a self-guided tour through the staterooms of Rideau Hall and explore the gardens and greenhouses.

Horse Lovers’ Weekend at Upper Canada Village

With the Canada Strong pass still in effect, kids entry to Upper Canada Village is free (or discounted for youth) so it’s a great time to visit for Horse Lovers’ Weekend! Activities are planned daily and it’s open Labour Day Monday.

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The memories we’ve made over the years when immersed in a special vacation out of the country, or an overnight for a quick getaway have been priceless. It didn’t matter where we were, there was sure to be laughter and inside jokes that we still talk about as my kids are teens and young adults.

Travel brings people together and our family loves that.

When thinking about Mother’s Day this year, my mom and I had the idea that we needed a little getaway. It wasn’t difficult to decide where to go; Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello is always on our list.

After my family of four took a quick trip to the resort in February to celebrate the 16th birthday of our youngest, we vowed to return sooner rather than later. Mother’s Day seemed like the perfect timing so we booked it.

Travelling as a family to a historic resort in Canada

Andy and our teens had no objections. It’s a frequent request to go there year-round. We’ve been during the winter when there is snow on the ground and you want to curl up playing games by the fireplace after skating or curling and a quick swim in their historic indoor pool. We’ve also been during the heat of the summer when we play tennis and mini golf before lounging by their gorgeous outdoor pool, overlooking the river with poolside food and beverage service available.

Like I said, it’s the perfect spot all-year long for our family, at any age.

Something for everyone of all ages when travelling

When booking travel as a multi-generational family, you have to account for a few things: The ages and needs of all the travellers (are their mobility concerns? Is it an easy spot for kids to participate and feel welcomed? Will the grandparents be able to find time to relax too? What pace does everyone want to be going at?).

You also want to consider what activities everyone likes to do, or how well you can mix and match. This is why for many years we’ve travelled as an extended family to Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello.

With its sprawling grounds, and extensive list of activities, we knew our time could be filled with fun, followed by relaxation. The five of us were able to play mini golf together, some of us played tennis, we all enjoyed a walk around the property, and began and ended the day chatting in the many gathering areas at the resort.

Planning to Travel to Montebello

Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello is only about an hour’s drive from Ottawa and yet feels like it’s far away.

The nearby town of Montebello and the area has even more activities (we will always recommend Parc Omega) as well as great food. But don’t feel you have to leave the resort to eat. There are two restaurants on-site, plus in the summer months a dinner BBQ is available as well as a patio food and bar (with pool side service too.)

If you do nothing else, enjoy their buffet breakfast. It’s incredible. Just like the memories our family made.

disclosure: Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello treated us to breakfast during our Mother’s Day visit. All opinions are my own.

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When my kids were little, I was often asked what we did to pass the time during the day. Even now that they are older, there are a few go-to activities that we continue!

I wrote this post a few years ago about how I fill the days – and yet, not fill them completely. I stand by that.  The kids need some time at home to be ‘bored’ if you will.  To figure out their own fun.

But, trust me, I know that not every day goes as planned and we want to do some activities that will be fun and keep them interested.

Here is a list of 25 activities that might help get you started!

1. Park Tours – does your city have a variety of parks? Don’t just go to your regular one, take this chance to explore the others and hit the park circuit!  Which one is the favourite? What makes each one unique? You’ll find that the kids treat each one as a new, fantastical destination! They don’t need to be fancy, but I will say there are usually bonus points if there is water involved.
2. Play dates – especially when you can be outside. These are as much for parents as they are for the kids. Check in with friends who are also looking for more to do!
3. Colouring pages – pick their favourite video game, or cartoon and print some pages if you can.
4. Obstacle course – keep them active, even if you are inside on hot or rainy days!
5. Old school games outside –  Hopscotch is a great one to start with!
6. Go to the library (or make one at home!)
7. Set up a sprinkler for some water fun.  Don’t have one? Fill a huge bucket with water.  Kids and water will make their own fun! Just add cups and sponges.
8. Make a puzzle
9. Make a comic strip!
10. Go for a walk and observe – what do they see in nature? What do they see around them?
11. Have some fun with cardboard boxes.  Build a post office, store, space ship, anything!
12. “paint” the fence or deck with water and a giant paintbrush or roller.
13. Play dress up.  Use your existing costumes, but also pull out some unusual items – like your own hats, scarves, or create your own super hero masks.
14. Eat a full meal outside (not just snacks!).
15. Lunch break somewhere unusual in the house.
16. Build a fort with blankets.
17. Go on a scavenger hunt.  Draw pictures for younger kids to find (leaf, rock, pine cone, flower) or write them out for the reading aged kids. Or, try this game especially with older kids.
18. Skip rope. Tell them recess stories from your childhood lol
19. Movie time! You can set up a mini drive in or theatre style setting.  Pop some popcorn and enjoy! TIP: Take this time to watch the movie together, not to do some extra housework
20. Become little scientists – do an activity like this simple colour one or amaze them with the classic baking soda/vinegar concoction.
21. Create an activity circle.  Sing and dance around it until the music stops then pick up a card to do the action.
22. Bring the indoor toys outside.  Playmobil and My Little Pony characters can find a whole new world to explore in the garden or on the patio!
23. Create an art gallery!
24. Visit a museum.  Don’t have access to a family-friendly museum? Have your kids create one! Set up ‘areas’ where they can display their ‘artifacts’. TIP: Many libraries offer Museum passes to borrow. Some museums have ‘free’ entry days and/or times.
25. Tell a ’round circle’ story – each of you takes turns speaking a sentence of a story, the next person adds a line and so on until it’s complete.  Need some starters?

• “Once upon a time, there was an egg in the middle of the forest…”
• “One day, while playing in the backyard, a little boy heard a strange noise in the garden…”
• “Somewhere in Outer space, a space ship was landing on a planet…”

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