Spring is the perfect time to bond with your family while embracing the beauty of the season. And the best news: it doesn’t have to cost much, or even anything at all! Here are 12 ideas to inspire your family's spring adventures:

1. Backyard camping adventure

There’s no need to travel far for an immersive experience with nature. Grab some sleeping bags, set up a tent, and transform your backyard into a campsite. You’ll create priceless memories telling stories around a crackling campfire and can even roast marshmallows for s’mores!

2. Nature scavenger hunt

Enhance your children’s observational skills and strengthen their appreciation for nature with a scavenger hunt. All you need to do is create a list of items for your children to find, such as specific leaves, rocks, or insects. Bonus points for using more than one sense in your hunt, such as the chirping of a designated bird or the scent of a specific flower.

3. Egg hunt

Hide coins and small bills in plastic eggs around the yard and house for a fun, seasonal activity. This can be a great opportunity to teach your kids about money management in an enjoyable way. For added fun, take your kids on a trip to an MSGCU branch and show them how to deposit their egg hunt prize into their account. Need coins or small bills for your egg hunt? Our team can help with that too, and teach you all about MSGCU youth accounts while you’re there.

4. DIY arts and crafts day

Get crafty! Host a creative session at home using materials you already have. From painting rocks to crafting with recycled items, there are so many things you can create at no cost.

5. Visit a local park

You don’t have to pay to enjoy a day at a nearby park. Pack a picnic lunch, play Frisbee with your family or explore the walking trails to score a great workout while getting up close with nature.

If you love to visit Michigan’s state parks and recreation areas, you can save on an annual pass when you renew your license plate each year.

6. Explore the backyard ecosystem

Turn your backyard into a mini nature reserve by observing plants, insects and birds. Research each discovery together to learn more about your local ecosystem. Level up the fun by setting up a mini nature display with your finds and inviting other friends to come learn from your discoveries.

7. Host a family movie marathon

Bring the theater home this spring by spending an afternoon binge-watching family-friendly movies. Look for recommendations online, and don’t be afraid to throw in one film that educates as much as it entertains. Don’t forget the popcorn!

8. Plant a family garden

What better way to enjoy the glorious weather this time of year than to plant a garden together with your family? Dedicate a small area in your yard or use pots to plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs. You can involve the entire family in the project, and have everyone help with the planting, watering, and pruning while you observe the growth process. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy veggies and fresh herbs in future meals.

9. Visit a local library

Libraries offer a variety of programs suitable for all ages. Explore your community's library to discover new books, attend free workshops, or participate in storytelling sessions.

10. Organize a water balloon fight

When it’s just too hot to play outdoors, cool off with a family water balloon fight! It's a fun way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors as a family.

11. Host a dance party

Dance up a storm! Choose a dance theme that resonates with your child's interests, such as a disco fever, superhero dance-off, or princess ballet. Decorate your space to match the theme using items you already have at home. Then, create a playlist of on-theme and age-appropriate songs to keep the energy high. Turn up the music and dance it up!

12. Volunteer together

Pay it forward by engaging in community service with your family. You can volunteer at local shelters, food banks or community gardens. This will help enforce the value of giving back and foster a sense of community.

Use these ideas to enjoy a wonderful time with your family without draining your wallet.

Category: Holiday & Fun