When my children were babies and toddlers, I was part of a MOMS Club and it was wonderful getting together every week at the park. We also joined one of the club’s playgroups and there we made friends that we still have today, years and years later.
As my kids grew older though, I wanted to start showing them the world, not just always play at our lovely park. Lucky for me, there were other moms who were also looking to branch out and explore with their children.
So we formed our Adventure and Explorers Group. There were 5 families at the core and then we would often invite others. Sometimes they would take us up on the adventure, other times it was just the core group.
We would take the kids up to the snow together, go to the botanical gardens, go on hikes, go see Disney on Ice, or go to a museum. Other times we would not really “go” anywhere but would all meet at someone’s home and make mini apple pies in the fall, or do a seasonal, kid friendly craft, or come up with some other special activity. One time the kids wanted to put on a play so we had a couple meeting times that were the "rehearsals" and then we had the show at the next gathering.
It was a really great thing. Looking back, all of us moms are so glad we took the initiative to make the group what it was. The kids bonded, us moms had fun making plans and watching the kids have all these wonderful experiences. We were all learning things, seeing things we would not normally have, and enjoying each other’s company. There are tons of great memories and photos of those adventures and explorations!
I encourage you to consider using this idea as a jumping off point for what you might be able to do with your preschool and school aged kids. In a few years they will be teens, busy on their phones, and not that keen on spending much time with you. Younger kids are curious about the world and very fun loving. They won’t even realize each outing and experience is expanding their knowledge base in a way that will help their growth and development. You will know it though, and be happy for it.
It's almost guaranteed that they will be excited about heading out with you for an adventure with friends or extended family. Have fun exploring!
