5 Ways to Celebrate Fall with Young Kids

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Pinterest tells us that as a mom, it’s pretty much mandatory that we have to love fall. PSLs, leggings, pumpkins, orange leaves, we are expected to really go for the whole shebang August through November (and then you better get in the holiday spirit like in September). And I’m totally falling for it. Since I’ve lived either in Phoenix or Tampa the past 10 years, I’m going all out for fall this year. Plus, I’m a new stay-at-home-mom. So, now that I need to fill our days with both educational, enjoyable and memorable activities, I’ve compiled what I found to be some of the best sights and attractions that Columbus has to offer to celebrate fall with kids, especially in this magical season of fall.

  • Picking apples. Lynd Fruit Farm in Pataskala and The Orchard Co. in Plain City are two options on both sides of town that offer apple picking, fall festivals, fresh produce, and much more. Our family went to Lynd Fruit Farm and loaded up on Honeycrisp apples that we’ll be enjoying all season long. Check their websites for various fall activities and events to get you in the autumn spirit. For a complete list apple picking, click here.
  • Corn mazes. There are many throughout Central Ohio, and The MAiZE at Little Darby Creek is one you won’t want to miss. The maze design is unique each year, and on the farm you can also buy fall decorations, roast marshmallows on a campfire, and play BINGO as you go through the maze. It is one of my favorite ways to celebrate fall with kids!
  • Picnic at a local park. With more than 16 Metro Parks in Central Ohio, there are plenty of options for you to see nature’s beautiful fall colors. Pack a picnic and bring your kids to a Metro Park near you.
  • Pumpkin painting. I recommend painting pumpkins vs. carving just because I’ve seen firsthand what it’s like to carve pumpkins with a toddler. Lots of mess and little reward. Toddlers love painting, and it makes our jobs a little easier if you go this route. Of course, if you’re up to the task of carving pumpkins, throwing the seeds in the oven can make for a healthy and delicious treat later.
  • Seasonal crafts. During your autumn walks, encourage your child to pick out leaves, sticks, and other outdoor goodies they find special. Here’s a simple craft that doesn’t require much preparation:
    • Cut a paper plate into the shape of a wreath.
    • Then, use glue to stick those colorful leaves your child found outside around the leaf.
    • Add glitter, other outdoor treasures or stickers over the leaves if you want.
    • Now your child has their very own fall decoration they can hang on their bedroom door or share with grandma or grandpa!

Fall is truly a magical and special season to enjoy in Central Ohio, so pick an activity for your family this week and enjoy!

 

1 COMMENT

  1. Great ideas! I was planning to carve pumpkins this year with our 18-month daughter, but you make a good point about painting instead! Might have to try that out instead 🙂

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