As we transition from summer into fall, for many of us our thoughts turn to school and the return of responsibilities after a months-long vacation for the kids. But that’s no reason the fun has to end. There’s still time for joy, even as the leaves begin to fall and families adjust to busier schedules.
With this in mind, FamilyWise will hold its second annual Family Fun Fest Scavenger Hunt from September 21-25. Families can participate by using the free GooseChase app for iPhone and Android. Over the course of 5 days, teams complete “missions,” such as visiting local parks and libraries, reflecting on family memories and values, and trying new recipes.
As proof that they’ve completed the missions, teams will post photos, videos and text responses. They can also see what other teams from across the state have posted, creating a digital community celebrating fun and wellness.
Completing missions earns points for each team. Teams with the most points at the end of the week will win prizes like a family photography session and gift cards or free passes to family-friendly businesses like the Minnesota Zoo, the Science Museum of Minnesota, Chanhassen Dinner Theater and more.
We may think of play as a luxury, but it’s actually essential to a healthy body and mind. “Play is a child’s work,” explained Katie Bierch, the FamilyWise Parent Support Services Manager. “Through play we’re teaching core life skills, problem-solving skills, cooperation, building respect between parent and child. Play is so important to building good relationships with your kids.”
For adults, play helps us relax, feel better and live longer. Spending quality (screen-free) time with loved ones – giving our full attention – can make them feel valued and strengthen our relationships. Play is more than just a break from work. It’s an equally important part of life.
Family fun doesn’t require much planning or resources. “I see families having fun by using community resources like church fairs, neighborhood BBQs, and trails and parks,” Katie shared. “And families are spending time having fun together at home dancing, cooking, participating in TikTok trends, and more. Most of these fun activities are very low-cost or free.”
Play can also ground families in shared values, help parents and children get to know one another better, and strengthen the sense of safety and stability at home.
Whether you’ve got a lot of fun family traditions to share or are looking for new ways to have fun with your family and friends, you don’t want to miss out on this year’s Family Fun Fest. The week-long scavenger hunt celebrates and showcases family fun across all families – families with young children, adult children, groups of friends, and even furry family members can join in on the fun!
Learn more about how the fun works and register today at http://www.familywiseservices.org/family-fun-fest.
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