Dad and the Duo

All right dads, it is the weekend and time for family fun. Maybe you and your wife are trying to think of an activity for the whole gang. Perhaps you are rocking it solo dad style while she is M.I.A. in Hobby Lobby. Either way, now is your chance to pick something that you want to do…. but how to convince the kids.

Let’s face it, the things that you as a dad enjoy doing are typically not going to be your kids first choice. While these activities might never be at the top of my kids list, we always find a way to make it tolerable, if not down right enjoyable, for everyone.

5. Video Games

Most of use grew up on video games and still play them to this day. While it might be tempting to dominate your kids at Mario Kart, taking it easy on them can extend the fun. Keep them engaged, show them some tips and tricks, and you can spend time doing something you love as family time.

4. DIY Household Projects

Is there anything more rewarding than killing two birds with one store? Well yes, there are at least 3 according to this post, but it is still pretty nice. Do not underestimate how long your kids are willing to hold two pieces of wood together so the wood can dry when they think they are helping. Just make sure you are giving them safe activities, or you might learn how quick and rotating drill can tangle up a ponytail. Oddly specific huh?

3. Go to That Sports Game

90% of my conversations with the Duo start with me telling them to keep it down. Take them to a football game and let them reek havoc on the opposing offensive audibles. While I go the see the Appalachian State Mountaineers win games, they go for the snacks and chaos. The best part, as long as they are cheering for the right team everyone around them will actually love their wild behavior.

2. Theme Park Adventures

To this day, I still love riding roller coasters just as much as I did when I was a kid. Which means…. my kids love it as well. It is important that you level YOUR expectations going into it. Understand that even though you can back-to-back the faster coaster in the joint, that might be a bit much for an 8 year old. Level your kids expectations as well, that 4 year old won’t be able to ride Death Cart 3000 so don’t hype her up for it.

1. Brewery Visits

Dad likes beer, big shocker. What is shocking, my kids have learned to love breweries as much as I do but for different reasons. The key to this one is to know the vibe of the brewery and plan accordingly. Mostly inside? Bring plenty of activities and those ever-addictive tablets (backup power packs included). Outdoor with lots of space? Pack the balls, bubbles, and sidewalk chalk. Think of all the lame things they always ask you to do and let them do it there while you drink beer.

These are the dad things that I enjoy doing with my kids, and they enjoy it to. Your list could be completely different. Maybe you don’t have kids whose legs start hurting 5 minutes into a walk. Or your kids could have the patience to stare at a lake for 5 hours without catching a single fish. Mine certainly don’t so these activities work well for us. No matter what dadtivity you bring your kids to do, make it fun for them so it is something they look forward to doing instead of dreading (see aforementioned tea party).