Backyard Camping

If you’re the stay-at-home dad for the summer, it will fall to you to keep the kiddos busy each day. The more I think about it, the more stressed I get! Planning outings, hosting playdates, swim lessons, meal prep, day camps, family gatherings, summer festivals and activities – there is a lot to squeeze into those summer months!

This year, I want to make a conscious effort to also build in some down time and schedule in some quieter, calmer activities. We would ALL benefit from a few lazy mornings, movie afternoons, puzzles, painting and reading.

One thing I’d like to try this year is backyard camping! I really like the idea of enjoying the outdoors with quick access to home comforts when needed. It’s a nice balance of something new that we can all plan together, and yet not having to deal with the hassles of packing, travel and limited access to a clean bathroom. So here’s my to-do list for a fun-tastic backyard camping day!

Planning – Being at home makes it much easier to gather what we need. Kids can make lists of essentials, a list of fun games and plan a couple of meals. Mental note: don’t let the kids forget about s’mores!

Tent – Bring all the pillows and blankets, yes, ALL of them, to make your tent cozy! No tent, no problem. There are lots of ways to make make-shift tents with bedsheets and blankets.

Games – The goal is to be tech-free, so it’s time to bring out the playing cards, board games, Frisbee, corn hole and flashlights. When it’s later, try some stargazing!

Fire – If you can have a fire safely, you can use it to cook hotdogs, make s’mores, and pop popcorn (the old-fashioned way), all while telling silly ghost stories.

And while it all sounds great to stay outside as much as possible, I know my limits and I’ll be taking cues from the kids. Misery isn’t worth the effort, so if the bugs are rampant or I can’t get comfortable enough to sleep, you can bet your bottom dollar I’ll be indoors in a flash!

 

Frank Emanuele is a proud father of two boys, a special education teacher, and a director of Dad Club London.