Fall is just about here and it’s bringing along breezes, vibrant foliage and a wonderful reason to snuggle up indoors. As the temperatures drop, even here in Florida, it’s an opportunity to connect with your children by engaging in heartening indoor activities. Here are 10 cozy fall activities to enjoy with your kids at home to help forge lasting memories.
1. Crafting Fall Decorations
Nothing says fall like a home adorned with handmade decorations. Gather your kids and some crafting supplies to create autumn-themed decor. Think painted pine cones, leaf garlands, and pumpkin crafts. Use natural materials from your backyard or local park to add an authentic touch.
Supplies:
- Pine cones
- Leaves
- Paint
- String
- Glue
Activity: Spend an afternoon making pine cone animals, painting leaves, and assembling garlands. Not only will your house look festive, but your kids will also feel proud of their creations.
2. Baking Autumn Treats
The aroma of freshly baked goods is a hallmark of fall. Spend some quality time in the kitchen baking cookies, muffins, or pies with your little ones. Pumpkin and apple flavors are fall favorites that are sure to be a hit.
Recipe Idea: Pumpkin Muffins
- 1 3/4 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Pour batter into muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes.
3. Storytime by the Fireplace
Curl up with a good book and enjoy some storytelling by the fireplace. Pick out some fall-themed stories or let your kids choose their favorites. This activity is perfect for a chilly evening and encourages a love for reading.
Suggestions: (Each link will take you to Amazon)
- “Leaf Man” by Lois Ehlert
- “The Scarecrow’s Dance” by Jane Yolen
- “Fletcher and the Falling Leaves” by Julia Rawlinson
4. DIY Scavenger Hunt
Create an indoor scavenger hunt with a fall twist. Make a list of items related to autumn, such as acorns, mini pumpkins, or specific colored leaves. you can hide these items around the house and let your kids have a blast searching for them.
Items to Hide:
- Acorns
- Mini pumpkins
- Red, yellow, and orange leaves
- Pine cones
- Fall-themed stickers
Here is a worksheet you can print out and use outside! CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD!
5. Indoor Camping
Who says camping is only for the outdoors? Set up a cozy indoor campsite with blankets, pillows, and a tent if you have one. Enjoy traditional camping activities like telling stories, playing games, and even making s’mores in the oven.
Setup:
- Blankets and pillows
- Flashlights
- Snacks
- Board games
6. Making Homemade Apple Cider
Warm up with some homemade apple cider. Involve your kids in the process of preparing this delicious drink. They can help wash the apples, add spices, and stir the pot.
Ingredients:
- 10 apples, quartered
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cloves
Instructions:
- Place apples in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Add sugar and spices.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2 hours.
- Strain the mixture to remove apple pieces and serve warm.
7. Fall-Themed Movie Marathon
Host a movie marathon featuring fall-themed or family-friendly Halloween movies. Create a cozy viewing area with blankets and pillows, and prepare some popcorn or other favorite snacks.
Movie Suggestions:
- “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown”
- “Hocus Pocus”
- “Coco”
8. Leaf Printing Art
Leaf printing is a fun and easy craft that kids of all ages can enjoy. Collect a variety of leaves, dip them in paint, and press them onto paper to create beautiful prints.
Supplies:
- Leaves
- Paint
- Paper
- Brushes
Activity: Let your kids experiment with different leaf shapes and paint colors to create their own unique masterpieces.
9. Building a Fall Sensory Bin
Create a sensory bin filled with items that evoke the feeling of fall. Include materials like dried corn, small pumpkins, acorns, and scented candles or spices like cinnamon sticks.
Items for Bin:
- Dried corn kernels
- Mini pumpkins
- Acorns
- Pine cones
- Cinnamon sticks
Activity: Let your kids explore the sensory bin, feeling the textures and smelling the scents. This activity can be both relaxing and stimulating for their senses.
10. Creating a Gratitude Tree
Encourage your kids to reflect on what they’re thankful for by creating a gratitude tree. Use a large branch as the tree and let your kids write things they’re grateful for on paper leaves.
Supplies:
- Branch or stick
- Paper leaves
- String
- Markers
Activity: Each day, add a new leaf to the tree with something your child is thankful for. It’s a wonderful way to foster gratitude and mindfulness during the fall season.
Autumn brings a touch of magic to the air and, with these activities you can make memories with your children in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re getting creative baking treats or simply snuggling up for a story, by the fireplace these shared moments will fill your hearts with warmth as the temperature drops. So gather your ones choose an activity and savor all the experiences this lovely season brings!
Enjoy your cozy fall activities and make the most of this wonderful season with your family!
