Sure, it’s tough to get back into the swing of things after a long, hot, lazy summer, but it’s also mighty refreshing. Just think about it: The kids are back in school, the whole family can follow more of a routine and everything just feels a little bit more… put together. Especially when you can enjoy the start of the school year (and end of the summer) to its fullest. Now’s the time to make the most of the changes, and look forward to the months ahead!
Here are 10 budget-friendly family fun tips to keep you and your family excited, organized and entertained this Fall:
1. Make snacks for the week. Thinking ahead always makes life a little easier, wouldn’t you say? That said, having a handful of after-school snacks prepared for the week will keep hungry tummies satisfied and stressed-out parents at bay. It will also prevent any impulse purchases at the grocery store (beware the high-sugar, salt-laden, trans-fatty treats!), and keep you in control of what your family eats. Try healthy homemade muffins, natural yogurt, boiled eggs, veggies and hummus, or sliced pears/apples with cheddar.
2. Create a family calendar. Getting back into the busy school year also means packed schedules, after-school activities and playdates galore. Keep it all under control with a monthly family calendar that each member contributes to. Start out with a large sheet of poster board, and then make a calendar for the month; keep some space free at the bottom to make notes of events or reminders. Have each family member add events or appointments to the calendar, along with a list of fun family activities (such as movie night, games night, a visit to a pumpkin patch, etc.) for everyone to choose from on days off. Keep the calendar somewhere that is clearly visible and often visited, such as a mudroom or pantry.
3. Make some faux takeout. Busy weeknights call for quick dinners and takeout is a common solution. But it’s easy to recreate many of your family’s favorites with ingredients you already have on hand (pizza out of pitas, tomato sauce, veggies and cheese! Baked chicken with baked potato wedges! Chicken fried quinoa!). If you’re on Pinterest, just search for ‘homemade takeout’ and you’ll find a ton of different recipes - many that can be made in just minutes. Who needs to order in when you can do it yourself!
4. Bring back summer playtime. Just because summer holidays are over, playtime doesn’t have to be! While the weather is still decent, do something fun outdoors for an hour or so each evening. Take a walk or bike ride along one of the city’s many beautiful pathways, head to a playground, play ball or even go for an ice cream cone. Make time for play before getting homework done, and then your little ones won’t have any pent-up energy that will prevent them from focusing on their work. It’s also a great chance for the family to spend time together and enjoy one another’s company!
5. Inspire creative minds. If your little one has a creative streak (always coloring, creating, admiring), check out the 6th Annual Calgary Art Walk on Stephen Avenue on September 4 from 10am to 5pm (head over after school!). Admission is free, and you and your child will get the chance to check out some great art, meet the artists and, of course, be inspired. For more information, check out artistsforthepoor.ca/calgaryartwalk.html. And for more fun and creative events, visit the the ‘Events Calendar’ on this website.
6. Inspire curious minds. If science is more your child’s thing, Beakerhead (September 10 to 14) is a must-do! This hands-on event turns the entire city into a giant laboratory, giving people of all ages a chance to take part in all sorts of exciting activities. Check out the assortment of public performances, community challenges and extraordinary creations throughout Calgary during these exciting five days. For a schedule of events, programs and workshops, head to www.beakerhead.org.
7. Make the most of local farmers’ markets. The seasonal farmers’ markets are winding down, and this means that there’s a ton of produce available (think late-harvest items like apples, pears, sweet potatoes, chard, squash and beets). For the most part, you’ll be able to get your hands on these goodies for a discounted price, especially if you’re purchasing the items directly from the farmers. For more information on all of the markets in Calgary and area, visit www.calgaryarea.com and select ‘Farmers Market’ under the ‘Community Services’ tab.
8. Check out the harvest. If you’re looking for bulk produce (remember that whole thing about prepping snacks ahead of time?), you’re in for a treat with the Annual Fall Harvest Sale at Heritage Park Historical Village on September 6 and 7. Bring a wagon along for all of your goodies, as admission to the sale is included with admission to the park - so plan for a day out with the family. Get there early, as the place gets packed quickly. For more information on the sale, including hours and benefiting charities, visit www.calgarypma.ca or www.heritagepark.ca.
9. Get jamming and canning. Make the most of all that bulk or discounted produce mentioned above by preserving it for the months to come! Canned tomatoes, homemade salsa and pasta sauces, pickles and fruit will keep you and your family stocked up on the essentials for the winter. Reduce the amount of work and the cost by getting together with a few friends or family for a canning party, and have each person contribute some ingredients and supplies. Yum!
10. Stay up late. September 12 marks the last Inglewood Night Market of the year, so it’s bound to be a good one! This street party takes place over two blocks on 10 Street SE in Inglewood (between 9 and 10 Avenue) from 6pm to midnight. Check out all of the local vendors, dance in the streets and enjoy some tasty food from local farmers and nearby restaurants. Get all of the details on the Inglewood Night Market at www.finditcalgary.ca.
Stephanie is a freelance writer specializing in travel and food writing. For more information, visit www.stephaniearsenault.ca.
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