Family Connection in Autumn

There are so many ways we can spend quality time together as a family, but each season lends itself to certain activities that help us bond and nurture our relationship with our children. Autumn is probably my favourite for seasonal family activity time, because it feels like it brings a natural slowing down and pulls focus in to our family circle. This feels particularly important in our busy, modern lives.
 
As it’s half term for us in the UK (and a 2 week lockdown here in Wales), I’ve been thinking of ways we can enjoy our time together whilst we stay at home. With the nights drawing in and the cooler days, it's the perfect time to seize the season embrace 'hygge' and enjoy some Autumn themed activities! Here's our ideas for easy and realistic ways you can connect as a family through the season Autumn.
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Art and Craft

• Leaf art. In school my youngest created a leaf man picture after reading the book Leaf Man (Lois Ehlert). I thought this was a lovely idea.
• Make an Autumn Wreath
• Create an Autumn leaf hanging, all you need is a stick, some string and leaves!
• Make a bird feeder.

If you’re feeling particularly crafty…

• Learn to knit
• Make a scarecrow
• Make an Autumn front door display.

Cooking and Baking

• Make soup together.
• Make an apple crumble or pie.
• Halloween treats

Cosy Evenings

• Roast Marshmallows, make smores
• Watch a family movie with hot choc and treats.
• Turn out the living room lights and lie on the floor under a blanket to watch a star projector or …
• Wrap up on a clear night and head into the garden to see the stars.
• Read Halloween or Autumn themed stories, Funny Bones, Room on the Broom or The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Creepy Crawly Halloween for little ones or Harry Potter, The Worst Witch or Goosebumps for older children.

Get outdoors

• Clear the garden for winter, collecting up the leaves etc. 
• Wrap up on a clear night and head into the garden to see the stars.
• The sun goes down early now, head out to see the sunset.
• Autumn walks. They put us in touch with nature, the colours are beautiful and the Autumnal light makes for great photo opportunities.

We've created this lovely FREE Autumn Activity Checklist to help you ensure you spend quality time with your family at this beautiful time of year. Click here to download!