Fun Options for Spring Break at Home

Spring break is coming up in a couple of weeks and it seems like everyone in the neighborhood is heading out of town except our family.  Do you have any suggestions for what we can do so my kids don't feel so left out?

Our family loves to travel,  but we've also spent our share of school breaks at home.  A little planning can go a long way.  You probably don't want to just wake up each day and then try to figure out what to do with the little darlings.  Have a plan,  show enthusiasm for it, and your kids will be on board for some at home fun!

One idea that has gained popularity in these financially difficult times is the "staycation".  Plan to do the touristy things that are right here in the Chicago area.  Plan to take the Metra train downtown - that journey will be an adventure in itself for most kids. 

Our great city is full of museums large and small that appeal to all ages.  Plan a museum one day,  a trip to the local "Y" pool, another,  a local children' s theater production.

The options are all there with a little research and planning.  Many local hotels have great discounted weekend rates.  Recently the Hampton Inn in Lincolnshire had an overnight rate of only $56 including free breakfast, HBO,  free wifi.  Check in,  spend the afternoon in the pool / hot tub then walk to the nearby Regal Theaters and take in a movie,  or enjoy Glow in the Dark mini golf at "Putting Edge" or a meal at Red Robin.

This website can help you find discounts and do your planning:  www.choosechicago.com/Pages/default.aspx and don't overlook our own "Lake Zurich Patch" "Events" guide.

Another plan is to "travel" around the world without leaving your family room.  Pick a destination for each day of the week.  Get information about that location from the library or on-line.  Help your kids make a costume or hat that a "native" of that locale might wear.  Cook some food for lunch that might be eaten in your destination of the day,  or even seek out a local ethnic restaurant that reflects the culture you're studying. 

Next play a game that is played in that culture,  or if it's a beach destination,  wear your beach wear in the house and set up a sand play table for young children,  or pull out the beach toys and let them play with them in the bath tub.  The library is well-stocked many travel dvds that will help your family feel like you've actually "visited" an exotic locale.

So treasure family time,  whether at home or away from home.  A little organization and planning will go a long way toward happy memories of times spent together during school breaks.