How to Have a Staycation with Kids in 2022

May 18, 2022
Picture of parents and kids cooking in their kitchen while having a staycation with kids in Raleigh

When you think about taking time off for vacation, you probably assume that you have to actually leave your home to have fun and relax. But, think again! A staycation with kids is a fun way to make lasting memories with your children – all while saving a few extra bucks!

With rising fuel and airline prices and things just so uncertain these days, the “staycation” is becoming more attractive to families. Let’s talk about fun ways to have a staycation with kids!

What is a “staycation”?

It’s simply a vacation that you spend at home doing whatever you want!

What do you do during a staycation with kids? That’s up to you and your family and what you like to do to relax. But, if you’re looking for some suggestions, we have some ideas to get you in that staycation state of mind. Let’s check them out!

Ideas for a Staycation with Kids 

One of the great things about a staycation with kids is that it can be low-key and still fun and relaxing. That’s what a vacation is all about, right? Keeping that in mind, here are some ideas to help you kick back and relax.

Sleep Under the Stars

You can get a camping experience right in your backyard. Pitch a tent, grab some sleeping bags, and get ready to toast some marshmallows. This can be a fun night of camping minus the headache of lugging all the gear miles to a campsite. Plus, you can cheat a little and run inside to use the bathroom! This is a fun experience for the little ones who always want to be outside.

Picnic Fun

Have a picnic lunch outside and have everyone in the family choose a favorite food to bring when you’re having a staycation with kids. You can pack it in a picnic basket, grab a blanket, and sit and relax. If the kids have kites to fly, bring those out too, or any other fun activity. Make it a relaxing afternoon of enjoying the beautiful weather and spending time with your family.

Take a Day Trip

Just because you’re not going to a vacation destination doesn’t mean you can’t leave your house. Check out interesting places nearby where you can take a day trip. This can include:

  • Aquariums
  • Beaches
  • Museums
  • Amusement Parks

Day trips are a fun way to spend the day and by the time you get home, the little ones will probably be so tired that they’ll fall right to sleep!

Plan an Outdoor Day

Just as schools often plan field days at the end of the year, you can have your own little field day during your staycation. Whether it’s riding bikes, taking a walk, or finding a lake to fish or kayak, take one day for all the outdoor fun you can squeeze in. Some families are very athletic and love hiking. If you like hitting the trails, that’s another idea for your outdoor day of fun.

Rainy Day Board Game Day

Whether you’re away or having a staycation with kids, you’re bound to have one rainy day. Instead of getting mad about it, turn your rainy day into a board game day. Kids love to play games and many parents do too. If your family is on the competitive side, you could turn it into a friendly competition with a little prize at the end, or you could just play for fun. 

Plan a Movie Night

A night out at the movies can get expensive for families. But, a movie night at home can be just as fun, and more comfortable! Let the kids get all of their favorite snacks, choose a movie, and you’re ready to go. If you want to get fancy and have the equipment, you can also plan a movie night outdoors. This is a fun twist on movie night that the kids are sure to love.

Have a Pajama Day

Kids love to stay in their PJs, and let’s face it, so do adults! Designate one day as a pajama day where everyone just relaxes. You can sit around and watch movies, read a book, do some craft projects…whatever you like, it just needs to be in your pajamas. That shouldn’t be too hard to do!

Having a staycation with kids can be fun, relaxing, and stress-free. It requires minimal planning and more of a plan-as-you-go mentality so that you can truly enjoy your time “away”.

Are You Looking for a New Child Care Center?

If you’re looking for a new child care center once your staycation is over, Primary Beginnings is here for you. We create a learning environment where children thrive. With our teacher-planned and child-guided learning approach, children get the best of both worlds.

To learn more about our infant child care or preschool programs, contact us today. Call us at our North Hills Drive child education center or our Spring Forest child education center. You can also schedule a tour. We can’t wait to meet you!