Stay-cations with kids

July 23, 10:39 AMParenting ExaminerKaren Deerwester

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adventures in your backyard? 

The family van is running on empty.  You're working overtime because this month's downsizing has you doing three people's jobs.  That trip to the Grand Canyon just isn't happening this summer.   You aren't the only one taking that stay-at-home vacation.

Guess what?  Your child can still have a memorable vacation - at home.  You just need to do a little stay-cation planning, not as involved as making reservations for hotels and long distance attractions but planning time to shake your usual routine.  I may not know what great adventures are waiting in your backyard but I know there are sites and experiences you take for granted every day.

First, let's decide what kind of stay-cation is right for your family.  I think of three different options:  relaxation (be-together-do-nothing), discovery (learn-something-new), and visit friends and family (we-never-have-time-to-see-you-time).  Pick what you need most.  What will rejuvenate your family and make it easier to get back to your usual routine?  What will help you to appreciate each other a little more?

Relaxation-Types need to clear their schedules.  Say "no" to outside commitments for whatever time you can take - one night a week or the weekend.  Plan some comfort food and enjoy eating it - on a picnic blanket in the backyard or in the tub; it doesn't matter.  What else do you need?  Games?  Music?  Books? Videos?  Just remember, to do what you do together, not in separate rooms waving as you pass each other in the hallway.

Discovery-Types are goining to play home-tourist.  Check out your city's happenings as if you're visiting for the first time.  Do all the things you only do when you have out-of-town guests - the museums, the parks, the "arepas" vendor you drive by everyday without stopping.  You are your child's eyes and ears to new adventures.  I remember overhearing a mom on a street in Paris explaining which buildings are old and which ones are meant to look old.  Duh, why did't I think of that!  When was the last time you noticed the local architecture with your child?

Visiting-Types can gather your favorite people for fun times in-home or around-town.  Dinner every night in someone else's home (cooked by kids?).  Baseball games or field trips.  Theme nights - games from around the world, cartoon night, or star gazing pajama parties.  Anything goes.  I do wish you the most luck because I know how hard it is to get everyone together.

Whatever you decide, your children only want to be with you, the unstressed you.  I promise - even if they whine and complain at first.  Have a great time - wish I was there!