March 5th

By Mutt Mulligan

Plan a spring break staycation to backyard more

Spring break is just around the corner. Typically, families would be putting final touches on their spring break getaways. But in the era of the pandemic, many are sticking close to home. Why not plan a backyard staycation to stay safe and create memories to last a lifetime.

Here are a few tips to excite your family about a backyard getaway:

Make a plan. Put together a schedule with a mixture of activities that your family will enjoy like dining, camping and games. You might even consider adding a theme that can be carried throughout with décor, costumes, food and activities.

Map where activities will occur. Your lawn can be the site for a rousing soccer game and can also double as a campsite for the family tent. Use a fire pit for roasting hot dogs and s’mores. Crafts, planting sessions and meals can happen at the outdoor dining table.

Teach kids about backyard wildlife and nature. Ask kids to take an inventory of the many birds, butterflies and other wildlife they see, looking up their species and background. Plant a butterfly garden or flowering plants to support birds and pollinators. Add wind chimes, rain collectors or backyard thermometers and wind gauges to help kids observe science in action. (Get STEM-aligned inspiration at TurfMutt.com.)

Design new games incorporating your yard. Hold a nature scavenger hunt that’s fun, educational and tests your family’s observational skills. Create a “dive-in” movie experience by hanging a sheet upon which to project a favorite flick while floating in the pool.

Build anticipation. Talk about your backyard vacation in advance with your family and review your plans. Count down the days to build excitement about spending time together in your family yard.

To learn more, go to TurfMutt.com.