As we discovered in our article "Family Date Night: It Is Possible," we found that keeping it simple when planning family time is the key. It's easy these days to get caught up in day-to-day tasks, and harder to slow down and enjoy family time.

We've compiled a few simple and fun activity ideas that would be fun (and easy!) for the whole family.

Get Crafty: Rock-Weight Craft

Does your family picnic often? If so, have your kiddos paint some rocks that can act as weights for the blanket corners. A simple stop by a craft store, and a hunt for the perfect rocks, and you are on your way to some fun!

It also opens the door for more picnics, another simple and fun activity to consider. 

Visit the Local Fire Station

Did you know that you can call up your local fire station and plan a visit with your family? You can do this for free, too! If your children are on the younger side, this could be an exciting adventure for everyone, as well as a great educational experience. 

For more information about local Mansfield Fire Department Tours, you can visit their website. 

Try Something New

Is there a type of food your children haven't tried, or something the whole family hasn't? Do some research and plan on ordering something like Thai or Mongolian food. Look it up on a map, and read about it online or in an encyclopedia, if you have one. Head to the restaurant, and be bold so that your children can follow your lead. Make it fun and exciting! 

Here are some local places to consider:

Blue Mint Thai & Asian Cuisine
Contact: (817) 453-1999
Address: 1211 E Debbie Ln #115, Mansfield, TX 76063

First Ton's Mongolian Grill
Contact: (682) 518-5618
Address: 121 W Debbie Ln, Mansfield, TX 76063

Suzushii Sushi & Grill
Contact: (817) 453-2334
Address: 2041 Hwy 287, Mansfield, TX 76063

Oh My Stars

Go stargazing as a family. Make it informative by buying -- or printing out -- a star chart. If you have a telescope, even better! Bring blankets and hot chocolate and learn about the stars together.

This can easily be done from the comfort of your own backyard, but feel free to take this as far as you'd like by visiting local parks, and more. 

Cook Up Something Together

Put on that apron and get cooking! Cooking is a great way to bond, as well as tasty. Pick out a simple meal together, get the ingredients, and get cooking. Something simple like pizza would be great fun to make. 

Get Outdoors

It doesn't hurt to get outside together. It could be fun, depending on the time of year, to head to a local water spot, such as a river, lake, pool, or splash pad. Cool off and have fun at the same time! 


What's your favorite family activity? 

Content courtesy of Parents.com, "20 Activities To Do with Your Family This Weekend."