Top 20 Autumn Activities
by Northern Life
Discover 20 engaging autumn activities for families!
1. NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT
Create a list of autumn items for kids to find, such as acorns, specific types of leaves, pinecones, or even animal tracks. Equip them with paper bags to collect their findings. This promotes exploration and appreciation of nature.
2. LEAF ART PROJECTS
Collect various types of leaves and let kids create art by pressing or glueing them onto paper. They can make leaf rubbings using crayons or create layered leaf collages. This activity can spark creativity and teach about different tree species.
3. AUTUMN-THEMED STORY TIME
Gather a selection of autumn-themed books from your local library or explore e-books online. Create a cosy reading nook with blankets and pillows and set aside time for storytelling sessions.
4. PUMPKIN DECORATING
Instead of carving pumpkins, provide markers, stickers, and paints to let kids decorate pumpkins creatively. This can be a messy yet fun activity that allows kids to express their artistic side.
5. OUTDOOR OBSTACLE COURSE
Use natural elements like logs, sticks, and rocks to set up an outdoor obstacle course. Kids can jump over, crawl under, or balance on various items, encouraging physical fitness and creativity in problem-solving.
6. BIRD WATCHING
Set up a birdwatching station with a pair of binoculars and a bird identification guide. Kids can observe local wildlife and learn about different bird species. Consider making a simple bird feeder using pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed.
7. BACKYARD CAMPING
Pitch a tent in the backyard or create a fort with blankets and chairs. Kids can enjoy stories, snacks, and even stargazing if the weather permits.
This inexpensive activity can instil a love for the outdoors.
8. DIY AUTUMN CROWN
Gather vibrant autumn leaves in various shapes and colours to create a stunning leaf crown that can be used as a beautiful headpiece for fall festivities. Fasten the leaves onto a sturdy base made of twigs or flexible vines, and enjoy showcasing your nature-inspired accessory during outdoor gatherings.
9. HOST A BONFIRE (IF PERMITTED)
If your area allows, gather around a fire pit and roast marshmallows or tell stories. This can create bonding moments and provide a sense of adventure, especially with the cooler evenings.
10. VISIT LOCAL PARKS
Check out local parks and nature reserves that may have walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Exploring different parks can provide a change of scenery and opportunities for outdoor play.
11. NEIGHBOURHOOD NATURE WALK
Take a stroll around the neighbourhood or local park, watching for seasonal changes like changing leaves and animal activities. Kids can keep a journal of what they see.
12. EXPLORE LOCAL FARMERS’ MARKETS
Visit a nearby farmers’ market, where kids can enjoy the sights and sounds and sample seasonal fruits and vegetables. Engaging with local vendors can teach them about healthy eating and sustainability.
13. COMMUNITY EVENTS
Look for free community events, such as harvest festivals or outdoor concerts. Many towns host seasonal events that can provide hours of entertainment.
14. COOK AUTUMN TREATS TOGETHER
Involve kids in preparing simple autumn-themed recipes like apple slices with caramel or pumpkin muffins. Teaching them kitchen skills can be both educational and fun.
15. DIY NATURE JOURNAL
Encourage kids to start a nature journal where they can document their findings, draw what they see, or write poems about autumn. This can enhance their observational skills and creativity.
16. AUTUMN PHOTO CHALLENGE
Provide kids with a camera or smartphone and send them on a photo scavenger hunt to capture the beauty of autumn. They can find and photograph things like colourful leaves, pumpkins, or wildlife.
17. CREATE A FAMILY GRATITUDE LIST
As autumn leads into winter, have kids brainstorm and write down things they’re grateful for. They can draw pictures or create a gratitude tree with leaves representing each thing.
18. GAME NIGHTS WITH AUTUMN THEMES
Have a family game night with seasonal board games or card games. You can even create your games inspired by autumn themes, such as trivia about autumn or bingo with nature items.
19. SUNSET WATCHING
Schedule family time to watch the sunset together. Discuss the colours in the sky, enjoy the cooler autumn air, and perhaps have a warm drink while soaking in the beauty of nature.
20. VOLUNTEER TOGETHER
Look for local organisations that may need help with clean-ups or food drives during the autumn. Volunteering is a great way to teach kids about helping others while providing a sense of community involvement.
This post is featured as part of Twinkl’s Fall festivities; find me in Creative Fall Activities for Children
NorthernLife Family Autumn 24
