Easy day trip ideas kids of all ages will love
By Jillian Lewis
Fun things to do with kids
If your kids are only two or three years apart, you probably find they enjoy a lot of the same activities. It's when the age gap widens to four years or more that it can be harder to entertain the brood with the same activity. No matter what ages your children are, here are some great tips for creating sibling harmony when planning a family outing. 

Plan it together

Hold a family meeting to help plan a fun day out. Let each child choose one activity and incorporate it into the day. 

Make ground rules

Allow each child to tell everyone what activity they would like to do (no matter how silly), without their siblings moaning and groaning about it. Older children may try to coax their younger siblings into choosing something they'd rather do; for instance, if your youngest child chooses riding the bus as their choice of activity, older children are not allowed to whine just because they'd prefer the comfort of the car and control of the radio.

Give school-aged kids responsibility

Seven- or eight-year-olds feel very important when given a job. Ask them to write down the itinerary for the day, with estimated times, in a notebook. They can check off activities that are completed as the day progresses. 

Factor in down-time

Although older kids won't have any trouble getting through the day, younger ones may need a nap or some rest time. Organise your day around it, even if it means sitting in the car while the little one sleeps and reading books or listening to quiet music. Skipping nap time may mean the afternoon may be more difficult with a grumpy toddler.

Create different games

Whether you're on a long drive, a picnic in the park or just on a walk around the neighbourhood, it's easy to create age-appropriate games for each child. For younger children, ask them to tell you each time they see something red; while older child can be asked to spot different bird species or create rhyming words of what they see.

Where should you go? 

Here are some ideas that all kids love, no matter their age.
  • Fairs, fun parks and fetes. Wherever you are check out the local paper for markets or school fetes that you can visit. From face painting to amusement rides, fetes and fairs provide endless entertainment for all ages.
  • The zoo. Ask older children to help decipher the zoo map and plan your visit; teach younger ones the names and sounds of the animals.
  • Garage sales. Have a look around for a few garage sales in your area. Give each child $5 to spend for the day. Take your time strolling around the neighbourhood and perusing the goods on offer – your kids may even find a practically brand new toy for sale or a piece for their collection of Lego figures.
  • Somewhere historical. As kids get older, they may start to take a keen interest in history and how people in the past used to live. Younger kids will enjoy the sights, while the older ones may appreciate the historical significance of visiting an old gaol, police museum or old home that's open for exploring. 
  • The beach. A trip to the beach is one the whole family enjoys. Even if it's not swimming weather, sandcastles can be built and shells collected.  Here are some tips on how to make sure your day is enjoyed by all.
  • Make a day trip. Plan a visit to a small town or a state park that's no more than two hours away from your home. Head out early in the morning, plan a hike or explore, then head home after lunch. 


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