Spring break usually conjures images of plane rides and beach trips, family photos at tourist destinations and matching t-shirts with “Spring Break 2019” scrawled across the front.
Or? You’re us and spring break is just another week at home with days stretched out like endless desert and in the middle of that desert are kids waiting to be entertained. Also if you’re us, you’re in the Midwest and SPRING Break is a downright lie…it won’t be warm, we won’t be basking in the sunshine, we’ll be cold and wet. So fun….
My advice? Plan ahead and get creative!
What can you do if your spring break plans DON’T include an out of town trip?? SO MUCH!
Spring Break Camps
I didn’t know this was a thing until recently and when I started looking around, they seem to be almost everywhere. Most are run through local park districts and offer kids a fun escape during the day.
Most camps offer day to day options as well as week long registration. This is also a great option for working parents or those who are looking for alternative care.
Pearachute
A friend introduced me to Pearachute and my first thought was, “This is a great idea!”
Pearachute is a membership based program that lets you drop into classes all across the Chicagoland area. (Plus 4 other cities!) The great thing about Pearachute is that they have activities during the week, on weekends and in the evenings, so they fit every schedule. From ballet classeS to open gym to Legoland, they have a variety of activities that will suit ages from 0-14. It’s a flexible and unique way to keep the kids busy!
Take A Day Trip!
Ok so you couldn’t actually swing an out of town trip but you’re dying for a change of scenery? Plan a day trip…you’d be surprised how the simplest destination can feel like an adventure!
- Museums, zoos, aquariums: Are there spots within an hour of your home that you’ve heard great things about but never tried? Pack up the car and go! Plan to be gone morning till night and make the most of a quick trip.
- State Parks: Taking advantage of local state parks and attractions is a great way to spend a day and usually a pretty budget friendly option! Find a park near you and go!
Book a mid-week overnight
Is a one night getaway a possibility? Do it!
I love last minute booking sites like Hotels.com, Booking.com and Expedia.com for great hotel deals. You can score some great rates if you book just a few days in advance! (Discount rooms are better than empty rooms!!)
We also LOVE Airbnb for fabulous family friendly accommodations near us. Grab a good deal and spend one night away, it may be just what your family needs!
Declare a Movie Day!
*I do realize this works better for older kids…I currently fantasize about this*
Pile up the blankets and pillows on the floor. Grab a bunch of sheets and make a fort. Rent or buy a new movie, load up on snacks and treats and hole up for the day!
This is an especially great option if a Spring Break day ends up rained out or, in our case, just too damn cold.
Go Local!
When I actually started looking, I was shocked how much stuff was scheduled around town for our spring break week! Libraries, park districts, restaurants, malls…you may be pleasantly surprised at the number of programs and special events are planned for spring break. A quick Google search and you’re off!
Plan a Craft Day!
Get your creative juices flowing and let each kid pick a craft they want to do. Plan ahead and have a bin ready with all the supplies for each creation, you can have your spring decorating done in no time!
Here are a few of my fave DIY crafting ideas:
Happy Spring Break!
Xo
Katie