Activities

Indoor Skydiving

Jumping out of a perfectly good plane always stresses mommy out, so give an indoor wind tunnel a try instead! Kids as young as 4 yrs old can experience the...

Five Hundred

You throw the ball. The kids fight to be the one to catch it. Okay, hopefully "fight" is too strong of a word, but your kids will learn skills like...

Take A Bee For A Walk

So your kid just brought home a baby bumblebee - What do you do? You put it in the freezer for 5 minutes to make it go into a hibernation...

Bonfire

More than a backyard firepit... And here is how you can take it to the Daddio Level: Winter: Have all your friends bring their dried out Christmas tree for a...

Brain Freeze Challenge

Slushie for you. Slushie for them. First to finish wins. Afterwards, talk about how the importance of moderation and/or the effects of peer pressure.

Reading Rainbow

Take a book (and a kid) down to the park or bike trail for a little story time. Reading to your kid in public will make you feel like a...

Poopie Songs

Got a car load of boys? Pass the time by passing gas and singing songs about poo! Make up your own, queue up a spotify playlist, or hit some of...

Spa Day

Steam room, sauna, massage... all the stuff the mafia guys do in the movies. You don't need to throw down for some swank day spa either - many YMCA's got...

Frog Gigging

Troll around the lake with a flashlight looking for frogs. Then, if so inclined, lance them with a harpoon and serve up fried frog legs! Fun way to fish too.

What’s in the Hole?

Kids love poking sticks into holes they find in the ground. Do them a solid by letting them actually see what's in there with an borescope. Great tool for fixing...

Pressure Washing

While deeply satisfying and therapeutic, this activity can also instill a work ethos and entrepreneurial spirit in your child.

Rocket Launch

Feel the sonic boom wallop your chest as you inspire your kid to shoot for the stars! Check out https://www.spacelaunchschedule.com/ to find a launch near you (Florida, Texas, California, Virginia...

Soap Box Derby

Hard to beat better bonding than building and racing a soapbox car with your boy (or girl), no matter the age. Give it a google to find an upcoming race...

Slaps! (The Friendly Version)

Great for killing the monotony of long flights and waiting rooms. Two people face each other and hold out their hands, one with palms facing up, the other with palms...

Paper Wasp

Teaching them the art of paper wasps is like playing with fire, but hey, they'll learn eventually. Better that you're there to show them where the boundaries are. Setup targets...

Scuba Diving Lessons / Swim Lessons

Open the door to vacation possibilities by getting your scuba cert. now! Great activity for kids to discover how they can conquer fear by.... diving in and doing! https://www.padi.com/education

Bike or Skateboard Tricks

Show your kid you still have some BMX skills. It's a great way to connect as they realize you were once a kid too, and perhaps went through similar life...

Acts of Kindness

Write a note to the bus driver, teacher, postal worker, mom, sibling and have others sign it or share their favorite memories. Volunteer at a soup kitchen or animal shelter....

Carbonated Ice Cream

No ice cream maker gadget required! 2 Cups Half & Half 1 tsp Vanilla Extract 1/2 Cup Powdered Sugar 1 lb Dry Ice Follow instructions in video below.

Fire Dragon

Spinning spark balls might be the coolest thing ever. Put some steel wool inside a metal whisk (the kid used for mixing pancake batter), tie the whisk to a 10...

Immersive & Interactive

The two latest buzzwords redefining traditional museum experiences. These are the exhibits you don't need Ritalin prescription to enjoy. Pop up experiences are... popping up... in every major city.

Industry Tours

Like your own personal school field trip, you can book a tour with your local water treatment plant for your kids to learn what happens to their poop after they...

Fast Food Playground

Technically this isn't a Dad-Kid thing, but it is something to keep in mind if you need to kill time. Buy a coffee and relax while your kids get the...

Build Workshops

Your future DIY'er will love getting hands on with real tools at a guided workshop at your local Home Depot! (Lowe's has an offering too if that's your thing). https://www.homedepot.com/c/kids

Cow Tipping

OK maybe not mom-approved and technically illegal but hey... what a thrill. And a good opportunity to bond with your teen and let them know that they can always bring...

Military Base Or NASA Facility Tour

Board a submarine, get a personal launchpad tour from an astronaut at Kennedy Space Center, see what SpaceX, Boeing, and SNC are up to at their design & development facilities,...

Butts Up!

Surprise your kids by suggesting a game of Butts Up. They'll be amazed to learn that you once dominated this playground classic, but more importantly, they'll make an association between...

Old School Nintendo Games

Kick your kids' butt in Goldeneye, Mario Kart, or whatever you spent years of your life perfecting as a child. You might need a converter to hook up your old...

The Welcome Home Ambush

Get a jump on your kids by greeting them with an arsenal of Nerf guns or the like. Just be sure to leave them a set to return fire! DADDIO...

Flaming Dollar Bills

Watch your kid's jaw drop when you take their allowance and set it on fire! First... soak the cash in %70 Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol then hold it with some tongs...

Fort

Did you know they make "forts" that blow up in 5 seconds with just a box fan? Crazy. But... cutting the corners on fort building is missing half the fun,...

Outside-In

Changeup time. The same old toys in a new environment will rejuvenate the fun and excitement. Grab the soccer ball, mini trampoline, bike, or Power Wheel car. Put it in...

Dirt Tracks, Demolition Derby & Figure 8 Races

You see it in movies but do they really exist? You bet your sweet Astrovan!.  Find 'em here: http://www.racingin.com/track/. Heads up: If you sit low in the stands, there's a...

Monster Trucks

Monster Jam is coming to your city Sunday Sunday Sunday! At least... probably one Sunday out of the year - put it on your calendar now!

The John Dutton

Cowboy up! Rodeos and state fairs have everything a little kid could dream of. And you'll be surprised to find you may not have to drive all that far to...

Get Out There!

Find a new favorite campsite, fishing spot, or swimming hole through our friends at Outly.com. If you'd like a guided trip like kayaking through the Okefenokee Swamp, consider being guests...

Kitchen Soccer

A balloon, beach ball, or one of those light weight balls you see in center aisle bins at the grocery store are perfect for kicking around indoors without risking 'too...

Meals on Wheels

Let your child experience the joy of giving to those in need of a meal and a warm smile. Many seniors are in desperate need of socialization opportunities and would...

Dry Ice Bomb

This is guaranteed to wow, but do be careful and point the bottle in a safe direction far away from kids. Oh, and... wear some safety goggles!

The Luge

Hill and skateboard meet a safer alternative that's all dad.

Junk In The Trunk

Load an amazon box or shoe box with ping pong balls, tape it to a belt, put a few holes in the box, put it on and shake what yo...

Trash Cleanup

Organize a community cleanup of a local park, creek, or beach. Your kids will radiate with pride over their service as they discover meaning in making the world better for...

Whitewater Rafting

For kids as old as 8. Same goes for fishing float trips FYI. DADDIO TIPs: Note there are two business models for rafting outfits: 1) Quality, 2) Quantity. Be weary...

Kitchen Dodgeball

Swap the gym balls for crumpled paper, ball-pit balls,  or wet sponges. Lay some tape on the floor to delineate the boundary and bring all the fun indoors for year...

Wheelbarrow Jogger

Strollers are boring! Stick the kids in your wheelbarrow and set off for a jaunt. They'll love it, and you will get one heck of a core workout! We recommend...

Ant Hill Casting

Many great YouTube videos on this, but the secret sauce to make it easy to do at home is Pewter. Its low melting point will allow you to melt a...

Be A Tourist In Your Home Town

All the stuff out-of-towners do that locals take for granted... Bike and Segway tours, zoo's, aquariums, ferris wheels, planetariums, and museums... Make it extra fun by dressing up as crime...

Would You Rather…

Get to know your kids while promoting creativity, laughter, and positive social behavior. Just pose the question and have them choose between ridiculously terrible choices or real options that dig...

Pit Maneuvers

When you make your obligatory Chick-Fil-A stop on your next road trip, throw down a few exercise challenges - the most push-ups or jumping jacks, the fastest 20 yard dasher,...

Commercial Songs

So this was a drinking game but fun without beer too! Take turns singing commercial jingles. If it's your turn and you can't think of one within a few seconds...

Telephone

Whisper a short story to the person next to you. They then repeat to the next person and so on. Eventually, bits will be left out, changed, evolved until the...

How Was School?

Kids are often reluctant to give you more than "fine" in response to this question. Don't let them get away with it! Poke and probe deeper! Truth is they want...

20 Questions

Great for abstract thinking and strategy development. Someone thinks of a 'thing' and the others can ask up to 20 yes-or-no questions to figure it out.

Once Upon A Time

Delve into the wild world of your kid's imagination ...if you dare. Start with a "Once upon a time" (or "This one time..." for older kids) and take turns adding...

Charades

Love this game for tapping a kid's creativity and promoting confidence, all while being a fun bonding experience. A classic for sure, but for little kids, pick up a set...

Dance Mode

A tap to the head engages 'dance mode' which means no matter where you are, you have to get down and boogie! Set a limit - each kid gets to...

Feather Wand

Point the magic wand (a feather, duster, paper towel roll.. whatever) at any object and shout "Heavy!". That object then magically becomes super heavy! The more drama you put into...

Neighbors

Each kid/parent builds their own couch cushion house. Assume different roles like the new parents with a sleeping baby or the loud frat house next door and let the drama...

Under Table Hammock Hideout

Tie a couple sheets together to form a loop, and hang your new "hammock" under the kitchen table for a sweet new HQ. Or take a cue from Bluey and...

Flashlight Tag / Hide & Seek / Sardines

Put this on your radar for your next vacation rental. Parents can get the house organized while the kids explore the space. Dad - you can strategically unload the car...

The Wash

Show your kids how to take care of their stuff and have fun with the hose and soapy sponge battles while you're at it! Pretend your kid is a sponge...

Hollywood

Help your kids act out their favorite story or a script of their own. Costumes, props, ...whatever you can muster. Then be sure to film it for an incredible keepsake....

Playin In The Crick

As Bandit says, It's the creek. You just sort of muck around. Spend the day crossing logs, looking for arrowheads, skipping rocks, hanging a rope swing, making a fairy garden,...

Pirates

Yaar about to have some fun if pirates ye may be! Sword fights, high seas, treasure hunts, crocodile waters (floor is lava), brave rescues, plank walks... all you need is...

The Claw Machine

Straight from Bluey. Bandit decides to be his own claw machine when the kids get disappointed by the janky machine. It's a fun way to help your kids develop resilience...

Tarzan Swing

Give your best Tarzan yell and take a swing on old growth Riverbank Grapevines (Vitis riparia)! A lucky find along riverbanks (duh), near forest clearings, and alongside roads or railroad...

IKEA Tea Party

Be 'that dad'. Every mom in the building will shower your child with attention as they're overcome by the cuteness of having your own personal tea party inside one of...

Costco Day!

So you're the proud new owner of a 30-pack of paper towel rolls... But to your kid, those are castle bricks, bowling pins, and footballs! See who can build the...

Dude… You Have A Box?!

That's more than a box. That's a fort, a helmet, dartboard, robot part, pair of airplane wings, crash pad, grass hill or staircase sled, a car to slide across the...

Start A Prank War

Having a friendly prank war with your kids can offer a surprising number of benefits, both for them and for the family dynamic. Here are some key values to consider:...

Water Pants

Fishing waders are meant to keep the water out, but fill them on the inside and you've got your own personal pool! Makes for a hilarious game of tag, soccer,...

Dig A Hole

Just like it sounds. But don't discount it - kids love a good hole and collecting worms in the process. Makes great cover for a pine cone war. Turn it...

Setup A “Permanent” Tent

Feeling Pintresty? Get those string lights and a cheap tent to make a backyard hangout. Or fill it with sand from Home Depot for a perfectly covered sandbox.

Volcano That Doesn’t Suck

Forget the baking soda and vinegar and bring on the fire and brimstone! Mix sugar and potassium nitrate! Mix in a 60/40 ratio and you've got a flaming smoke grenade...

Rocket Launcher Build

Like a potato cannon without the heavy projectile. Launch rockets, water balloons, or snowballs! Drive home the need for responsible behavior. Set boundaries and consequences ahead of time. Demonstrate safe...

Trampoline Chalk

Think hopscotch sidewalk chalk for the trampoline. Jump to the target landing zones in a given order. Maybe one zone requires a butt bounce, jumping jack, or football catch. Or...

Spear Thrower

Make an Atlatl! ...or buy one and throw a spear farther and faster just like how ancient people hunted. Check out https://justsurvival.com/how-to-make-an-atlatl

Hibachi

Don't just do dinner. Do Hibachi! Who doesn't love a flaming onion volcano... well... kids under 3 are probably going to cry, but for the rest it's a great experience....

Kickball Water Slide

Amp up the fun by putting a slip n' slide between the bases!

Greased Watermelon

Lather up that big boy with margarine, shortening, or Vaseline and toss it in the pool (it floats). Teams compete to get the slippery sucker to their side of the...

Watch Ya Mouth

CHALLENGE YOUR COMMUNICATION SKILLS as teams tackle silly phrases while hampered by mouthpieces, tackling family friendly phrases.

Paintball Throwables

Water balloon meet paintball... It's messy but a wildly good time for a special occasion.

Charcoal Art

Next time you throw some logs on a fire, consider setting aside a few burnt sticks to cool. The charred ends make great primitive paint brushes for "cave paintings". Fuel...

Catch A Spider Web

Capture a web by sprinkling baby powder on it, then spray a sheet of black paper with hairspray. While it is still wet, gently make contact with the web and...

Leaf Rubbing And Press

A little arts and fartsy but it gets you and the kids outside. Take a walk and have them collect some interesting leaves. Back home you can put them under...

Surge!

Emulate the mayhem of the commercials from this 90's era Mountain Dew-like drink. You put an object/prize at the end of an obstacle course or slip n' slide, or behind...

Magnifying Glass Lava

Not only a fun tool for making funny faces like Kevin McCallister, a good magnifying glass can cook a hot dog and put the fire in fire ants. Or... melt...

Snipe Hunt

It's all about walking around in the woods with the kids. Try to build up the anticipation and excitement. "Did you hear that?! I think that was a snipe!". You...

Chuck E Cheese

Just putting this back on your radar. They still have the creepy robot rat and serve terrible pizza, but the games still have all the blinky lights kids love.

Party City

Need to kill some time? Drop by a Party City with the kids. It's way cheaper than a toy store but will have the same effect. They're happy with a...

Office Party

Whether home office or office office, they're bound to have swivel chairs on wheels aka race cars and dizzy machines. Kids can't get enough...

Blanket Drag

Get a few cardio steps in by slinging the kids around the kitchen floor on blanket.

Jackson Pollock

Grab those old paint cans cluttering the garage and a large cloth painters tarp. Have the kids drop the cans or paint soaked sponges off a balcony, launch 'em like...

Email Journal

Even before your kids are born, set up an email address for them and send them all your thoughts and favorite pictures to mark milestones and proud moments. They'll be...

Time Capsule

It's fun to do, gets the kids thinking beyond the present, fosters patience, and is super fun and often hilarious to unearth down the road. Stuff it with meaningful items,...

Kids On The Roof

You're up there a few times a year, cleaning gutters and skylights. BRING YOUR KIDS. Talk about healthy fears, the unique perspective from the roof, the value of diverse perspectives,...

Self Defense Lessons

Strengthen their self-esteem, confidence, and independence while learning valuable skills and getting in a great workout together. Film their first session so they can always reference it to see how...

The Secret Spot

Give each child a secret spot that only the two of you know of. A place to leave messages, gifts, jokes, or just a place where the two of you...

Go Fishing

Resources: To find a new honey hole on your own, take a look at Outly.com. For world class expert advice and zero-fee bookings, check out yellowdogflyfishing.com. Casting a Line, Casting...

Family Reunion

Reunite and Reconnect: The True Value of Family Reunions In a world driven by hustle and bustle, family reunions offer a much-needed respite and a chance to reconnect with loved...

Marble Run

So fun and satisfying they even made a Nintendo game of this in the 80's. Build a course out of PVC, paper towel rolls, or even just race them down...

Float The River

Relax. Take it slow and enjoy nature. In the age of technology and constant stimulation, it’s more important than ever to find ways to get kids outdoors and connect with...

Crawfish Race

Just putting this on your radar for the next time you're at a crawfish boil. Or really anytime you have more than one animal e.g. rabbit, turtle, cat, crab, rolly...

Climb A Tree

Letting Kids Climb Trees: A Simple Joy with Profound Benefits In today's world of structured activities and digital playgrounds, it's easy to forget the simple joys of childhood. One such...

Ride Bikes

The Value of Riding Bikes with Kids Physical Health: Promotes cardiovascular health: Cycling is a great way to get your heart rate up and improve your overall fitness. Builds strength...

Trash Bag Balloons

Use a heat gun or hair dryer to inflate a shopping bag or trash bag. Make it a competition to see who's will travel the farthest! Great lesson in thermodynamics!...

Drivers Ed

Next time you're on an old country road or long farmhouse driveway, let the kids have a go at the wheel. Pure bliss, bonding, and self confidence boosting. MEANINGFUL DISCUSSION:...

Go Karts

FYI for serious speed, look for an outdoor track. Many offer karts that can reach speeds of 60 mph! Jr. karts for kids 5+ can be regulated to 15 mph....

Hot Air Balloon

Give your kids a thrill and a dose of a new perspective by flying high up in a hot air balloon! Not just for out west - there are balloon...

Toy Sale

Help your kids learn how to let go, recognize and have pride in their own growth, and practice valuable business and negotiation skills all by hosting a yard sale that...

Exploding Lake

Toss a 100 gram (not more!) chunk of sodium metal far into a pond or lake clear of people or animals and you will see (and hear) a huge explosion...

Fire Rain

Using a stick, hold a plastic milk jug (the frosted translucent ones marked HDPE plastic) over the fire. As the plastic burns, flaming drips will sound and look just like...

Army Navy Store

Before your next excursion swing into your local Army/Navy Surplus store for the most dad-centric gear you never knew you wanted so badly. Every boy needs a trip to the...

Drive A Stock Car

Get a real NASCAR experience by getting behind the wheel of the of the real deal! 10 years old to ride along in an exotic car, 14 for a stock...

Pine Straw Bale Fort

Before you spread out your landscape pine straw, let your kids use the bales to build giant block forts. Then offer them allowance money to spread it out for you...

Goofy Hands

One person puts on a large sweatshirt or jacket but does not put their arms in. The other person, standing behind the first, puts their arms into the sweatshirt and...

Burning Ice Cube

Ice, salt, lemon. Whoever can hold this acid compound on their skin for the longest is the winner (or maybe loser... which brings up a good discussion topic with your...

Airplane Challenge Throwdown

Don't just sit and watch TV, get some competition going! Our Best Ideas Flip cup, 'beer' pong with peanuts, bank a rubber band off the seat back into a cup,...

Secret Handshake

Create a secret family handshake your kids will remember the rest of their lives. Always a great way to greet each other on a positive note that reinforces your love....

Secret Language

Send your kids secret messages by signing, tapping Morse Code, speaking Pig Latin, or make up your own secret language. You're kids will cherish the individualized attention, silly words, inside...

Shadow Puppets

Great skill for bedtime fun, especially on a camping trip. Pick up a how to book for lots of characters, or just let their favorite action figures or dolls cast...

The Shocker

Not that one. This is a game where you pretend your kids are full of electricity. The slightest touch will send you reeling like Marv in Home Alone II. Little...

Puppets

Tap your arts and farts and crafts skills or just draw a face on your hand. The magic is in the personas you assume and the plot lines you pursue....

Palm Reading

"Kids, you may not know this but I've studied fortune telling and I can read your palm" Make up a silly story that you "see" in your kid's palm. This...

Draw-Back

Draw a letter, word, or sketch on your kids back and have them guess what it is. Great for bedtime play or a bit of entertainment on a long flight....

Plant Something

Give your kids ownership in part of the garden to instill merits of pride and patience. The best part is digging and finding worms...   Planting and gardening with kids...

Ring & Run

So we're not saying you should go annoy your neighbors, but your kids will think its hilarious making you come to the door over and over. But you can get...

Flight Simulator

You'd be surprised to learn how many facilities offer flight sim experiences. Fly a 737 at the Delta Museum in Atlanta or an F-14 fighter jet at one of the...

Airplane!

Head to your local airfield and check out the sights and sounds of airplanes on the move. Many small airports will have a playground, restaurant, or even a museum overlooking...

Wally World Pit Stops

Amazing sights are right off the highway! Too often we think only of the destination, and we make the process of getting there sucky. Let the kids get some energy...

Batting Cage

More than pitching machines, this generation of batting cages are packed with tee ball kids, older kids taking lessons, new technology, and most of all, community. You're likely to run...

Squirrel Catapult

Tired of the varmints invading your yard? Have the kids help you build a trap to toss them back over the fence! Less Aggressive Fun: Make a game of squirrel...

Word Association

Words connect to build stories. Child 1: Banana. Child 2: Monkey. Child 3: Spaceship. Child 4: Alien. Child 5: Out-of-this-world pizza delivery. Child 6: Astronaut with pepperoni for a spacesuit....

Nursing Home Buddy

Help your kid develop their sense of empathy and respect by volunteering at a nursing home to read or just be caring listener to the wisdom of those who came...

Thumb War

When they're bouncing off wall, throw down a thumb war challenge. All of the sudden they're sitting calmly, intently focused on only two things: your thumb and their thumb. That's...

Paper Airplanes

It's a life skill they need to learn. Get on it.

Blindfold Tag

Did Marco-Polo even like swimming? Bring the classic pool game inside! A small to medium sized room with the breakables removed and sharp corners covered in blankets will work best....

Aircraft Carrier (and other) Wild Campsites

Grab a group of dads + kids and book a campout onboard the USS Yorktown in Charleston Harbor! Maybe the most ultimate flashlight tag opportunity ever! If you don't have...

Sumo Wrestling

Pub Crawl

Call up your kids'-friends'-dads and meetup at a kid friendly brewery. The kids will love the giant jenga, shuffleboard, Golden Tee or whatever other bar games there might be, and...

Magic Tricks

Learn great tricks using everyday items in 30 seconds from our friend Oscar Owen: https://www.youtube.com/@oscar Wow your kids, have them consider how its done, and then show them how. You'll...

DIY Putt Putt

No need for a fancy course - just apply the old H-O-R-S-E rules from pickup basketball! Bank off the fridge, under the kitchen table, and down the staircase! Note: we...

DIY Water Blob

Ready to lounge in the pool but still a little too cold out? Lounge and play on top of it with a homemade water blob! Fold a 10 x 25...

Mento’s And Coke

Make it easy on yourself and just use the Steve Spangler kit. Note: works best with a 2-liter Diet Coke (separate purchase) and mint Mentos.

Exploding Hot Potato

Basically Mentos and Coke meets water balloons for a high anxiety game of hot potato!. Put 3-5 mint Mentos into a dissolvable baggie and tie it off to seal it....

Sky Is Falling

Kids have a ceiling fan in their room? Load it up with stuffed animals or suction darts and let her rip. You'll be teaching your kids about centripetal force while...

Filter Time

Have fun looking at yourselves through the many Snapchat filters. For budding artists, have them trace images on top of an iPad. Cartoonize your photos and have the kids learn...

Capture The Flag

Play it indoors; Play it at night; Play it on Bikes; Play it with Super Soakers! However you play this classic game, you're bound to have fun!

Ribbon Ninja

Hang long socks off your hands, feet, and waistband and try to steal your opponents without them taking yours first! Or just tape a length of painters tape in the...

Night Sports

Make a special memory by letting the kids stay up late to challenge you in night basketball, soccer, or flag football. Grab some glow in the dark balls and gear...

Demo Day

Watch your kids walk the aisles at Play It Again Sports. See what they are drawn to. Ask questions. They might discover a new passion or find something that will...

Family-Friendly Cards Against Humanity

Most family games are too complicated for the little ones or lack the boatful's of laughter you want. This one hits the mark for kids as young as 5.

Push ‘Em, Pull ‘Em, Haul ‘Em, Drag ‘Em

Drag your kids around with purpose! A cheap toboggan, tow belt, and a few kids for weight makes for a great strength and conditioning activity! Get the same workout that...

Insane Party Rentals

You can do better than a creepy clown, petting zoo, or pony dressed as a unicorn! Some All Inclusive Come to You Rentals: Nerf Battles Animatronic Dinosaurs & Actor's in...

Kid Lift

Don't skip out on family time to get your workout in - use the kiddos as weights! You'll be surprised how strong your core will become when slinging 50 pounds...

Shaving Cream Balloons

Maybe it's a little too cold for water balloons, or maybe you just want to see the surprise on their face. Either way, a Barbasol shaving cream balloon fight is...

Lawn Twist

Build core strength and take advantage of a nice day outside! Make your own 'Twister' board outside on the grass. Take turns calling out which color to place a given...

Tape Faces

Just sitting around on the couch? Liven it up by taping it up! Stretch your face into funny looks and tape it in place. Makes for hilarious photos.

Junkyard Smash

Get some friends to go in on a junkyard car and let the kids smash away all their teenage rage! Great for fundraising drives, event hype, frat parties... just saying......

Laser Tag

When we were kids we had to drive two hours. Now they're everywhere and still just as fun, but you'll also discover that you're not as nimble as you were...

Indoor Rock Climbing

Not just for bigger kids. Many gyms offer kid areas for bouldering and auto-belaying. Scaling New Heights: The Value of Taking Your Kids Rock Climbing Rock climbing is an activity...

High School / Collegiate Sporting Event

Take the kiddos to a college sporting event. What is your kid interested in? Inspire them by taking them to watch some athletes who have put in their dues! And...

Hulk Smash!

What's inside? What is it made of? Kids are curious. Every question is an opportunity to learn something new, and the best way to retain that information is through a...

Dad Level Slip N Slide

Get an epic slide and save a boatload of money by skipping the brand names and busting out a massive painters tarp instead. Wide enough for multiple sliders and long...

Backyard Movie Night

Whether a cozy night with kids in the back yard or a neighborhood social on the front lawn, it will be an evening to remember. Amass your collection of AV...

Family Field Day Olympics

Dizzy bat, tug of war (with a baby pool in the middle), wheelbarrow relay (with an actual wheelbarrow and kids inside), 3-legged race, corn-hole, flip cup, "Tool Aid" pong, egg...

Fishing Rod Baseball

Not just for 'the gram', this is actually a pretty fun way to engage your kids over batting practice. Dangle a tennis ball off a fishing pole and let your...

Sprinklers

No explanation required, but this summertime activity is often overlooked. Take advantage the next time your lawn gets thirsty, or just amp up a trampoline or bouncy castle party. If...

Water Rocket

Forget wimpy stomp rockets! Be the hit of the beach as you send this guy hundreds of feet in the air. It's a great way for your child to meet...

Keepy Uppy

Elevate the classic 'don't let the balloon touch the floor' game by using light sabers. Grab some cheap inflatable ones, fancy illuminated ones, or honestly just a paper towel roll...

Trick Shots

Just throw down a challenge like landing a hat on a post or ball in the hat, then see where your child's creativity takes it. Maybe its rolling a ball...

Make A Blowgun

A perfect accompaniment to any camping trip! It's a walking stick, a bush whacking stick, and a handcrafted blowgun all in one. The kids will love the time spent crafting...

String From Above

Make learning tee ball more fun and engaging with a simple 3/16 elastic cord tied to a tree limb or basketball hoop. Tie a chip clip to the end for...

Water Ball

Pitch a water balloon (or sponge) to a batter who, after bursting it, will run the bases before the other team can sink a predetermined basketball trick shot. Or... have...

Duck Pond Boats

Race boats around the pond and maybe chase a duck or two! Most boats on amazon are all pretty much the same, but we recommend a trigger and wheel type...

Rent A Rich Dude’s Pool

Like an AirBnB but just the pool! Rent one for your next pool party from our friends at https://swimply.com/   For older kids who crave a bit more challenge and...

Slot Car Racing

Hot Wheels on steroids and without all the annoying pieces all over your floor. One button for go. One button for break. No steering. It's easy enough for a toddler,...

Distorted Voices

Not like you'd go out of your way for this one, but keep it in mind the next time there's a giant fan at a restaurant or some leftover helium...

Muddin’

You don't need a jacked up truck but having AAA on speed dial might be a good call. A muddy field is great for teaching kids how to steer into...

Caving

It doesn't have to be some claustrophobic experience. Many caves are even wheelchair accessible. And they will all be sure to amaze young minds.   Caving, with its unique blend...

Hunting & Fishing

Don't know where to start? Many states offer classes and mentors through the DNR or state wildlife & conservation sites. Orvis has free fly fishing lessons. Or book a full...

Recording Studio

Rent out a studio for their birthday or just for fun. It's an opportunity to inspire a love of music and creative expression, while capturing that sweet childhood voice for...

Go To A Costume Rental Store

Take the dress up trunk to new heights and go to a legit costume rental store. It's about the experience of trying stuff on and laughing - and both are...

Rent A Stretch Limo

Sometimes it's just fun to cruise in style. Or if you're heading out on a trip that the kids are weary of, set the tone for an awesome time by...

Meteor Shower

They happen more often than you think. And it's so much more than just the magic of seeing a shooting star. An opportunity for meaningful conversations: If there is a difficult...

Roll Down A Hill

Let the Laughter Roll: Why Letting Kids Roll Down Hills is More Than Just Fun Sunshine, laughter, and the thrill of the wind in their hair – there's something undeniably...

Arm Wrestle

A few minutes to strengthen father-child bond. Let 'em win or show them what super daddy strength looks like. Tap your best acting skills and have fun, feed their imagination,...

Movie Date Night

Each kid needs to feel special in their father's eye. Girl or boy, you must be intentional about spending solo time with each child. And don't neglect date nights with...

Music Man

Jam through your vinyl's or Spotify playlists. See what resonates. Find shared interests. My 2 year old loves Rammstein, Prince, and Garth Brooks... Broaden their horizons before you get stuck...

Make Friendship Bracelets

Don't discount it. Bracelet making can give a restless or agitated mind a much needed break through creative expression. And the joy your child will discover from gifting a handmade...

Dance or Fight Choreography

Pick a track like MJ's Thriller and learn all the moves so you and your kids can spontaneously bust a move the next time you hear it. Or... binge some...

Pottery Class

Deeply calming and therapeutic, a pottery class is a great activity for creative expression on cold and rainy days.

Emotion Charades

Take turns acting out specific emotions and guessing the answer. Encourages social awareness, eye contact, and social competence skills