Last-Minute Summer Fun & A Bit of Tidying Up
If you’re looking for some last-minute summer fun and ways to get the kids to tidy up before the school bell rings, look no further. Use this creative method to not only motivate your kids to get organized, but also to add an element of adventure and anticipation to your family outings.
Step 1: Choose Fun Trip Ideas
Select a variety of fun or educational destinations that your family will enjoy – see ideas below. Then, label a colorful plastic cup with each destination. Inform your kids how many destinations will be fulfilled. For instance, you may have 5 destinations ideas but only three destinations will come to fruition.
Step 2: Define Tasks to Tidy Up
Provide your children with specific tasks to de-clutter and get organized such as removing items from their clothes closet that no longer fit; donating toys or books they no longer want; or tidying up their dresser drawers.
Step 3: Tokens for Completed Tasks
For each completed task, provide a token to your child. Then have your child place the token in a “destination cup” as a way of voting for the destination. If your child wants to earn more tokens in order to cast votes, add additional tasks to complete. For tokens, consider using an eraser for the back of a pencil. A pack of 60 erasers at Dollar General is $1.25.
Step 4: Schedule Destinations
At the end of the week, the cup with the most tokens determines the first adventure taken, and then the second, and so forth. Be sure to schedule the destinations on the calendar.
Trips Ideas
Lehigh Parkway & Little Lehigh Creek
Lehigh Parkway in Allentown is a beautiful park of natural surroundings to enjoy for free! You can walk through a covered bridge; bike or walk over 7 miles of scenic trails; fish in the Little Lehigh Creek or picnic alongside it. You might be lucky enough to spot horseback riders enjoying the bridle paths. At the edge of the Parkway are two more place to explore, the Little Lehigh Trout Nursery, one of the oldest continually-operated trout nurseries in the country, and the Museum of Indian Culture. The park and its surroundings were a fan favorite of my children growing up and still are a favorite of mine today!
America on Wheels Museum
A hidden gem in downtown Allentown is the America on Wheels Museum. A must for all ages, It showcases a large collection of classic and antique cars, trucks, motorcycles, bikes, and Mack Trucks. Interactive exhibits make it a fun and educational, teaching about the history of transportation in America. America on Wheels is providing a BOGO for WFMZ viewers now through Labor Day – just mentioned WFMZ when purchasing tickets at the door.
One-Night Stay at Local Hotel
Can’t leave town due to budget, pet care or work restraints? Treat your family to a mini-vacation with a one-night stay at a local hotel with a pool and restaurant! It’s perfect to unwind and spend quality time together. Enjoy the amenities for two full days – check-in early and stay late. If your room isn’t available for early check-in, have your pool bag ready to go with swimsuits and sunscreen. Don’t forget to pack a deck of cards and board games to play at night! If you need to bring along the pup, make sure it’s a pet-friendly hotel.
The Delta Marriott in Fogelsville is newly renovated. They are providing a special WFMZ Getaway Package now through Labor Day with 10% off. Book online at Marriott.com or call (610) 391-1000 and use the discount code WFMZ.
Northlandz Train Exhibit
Home to the world’s largest model railroad attraction is Northlandz in Flemington, New Jersey. This impressive exhibit features intricate miniature landscapes, bridges, and tunnels. It’s a fascinating experience for kids and adults alike, sparking imagination and creativity. For my children, it’s a great childhood memory – their Nana and Pop-pop treated them to this destination many times. Northlandz is offering a 15% discount on all tickets to WMFZ viewers, now through Labor Day. Use the code 2024nz15%.
Jim Thorpe Train Ride
The Jim Thorpe Train Ride provides a scenic journey through the Lehigh Gorge, with amazing views of the river and surrounding mountains. After the train ride browse the quaint town of Jim Thorpe, nestled on a winding hill. The town is full of shops, restaurants, and historical sites to explore.
Get Organized and Get Going!
Encourage your kids to get involved in organizing their spaces with the promise of these fun adventures. Not only will tidied spaces help them but your family will also create lasting memories with these exciting trips. So grab those plastic cups and tokens, and start planning your next family adventure!