Family friendly Fourth of July fun

T The 4th of July is here, and many families are together to celebrate. Shared family activities provide opportunities for parents, grandparents, and caregivers to be more involved in the lives of children for whom they are responsible. Families that play together, stay together when their play is wholesome and uplifting.

Family vacations, holidays, birthday celebrations, and other activities build strong bonds and feelings of self-worth.

The phrase “Remember when we…” is sure to bring love and laughter in the years to come.

Here are some ideas for family friendly 4th of July activities:

•Have kids and adults take a 4th of July Trivia Quiz. Then discuss the answers. You can take the trivia quiz I made at: https://forms.office.com/r/p2attxhtuc

•Have kids decorate their bikes and tricycles and have a patriotic parade.

•Camp out in the backyard.

•Play games.

•Have a family movie night with popcorn inside or outdoors. I’ll include a recipe for Patriotic Popcorn.

This recipe is easy to prepare and will be a tasty snack for a movie.

•Attend a community firework display with family or watch a firework display on TV.

•Have a picnic or cookout.

•Turn on the sprinklers/water hose for kids to run through or have a pool party.

•Make holiday themed crafts.

•Write a letter or send a care package to someone serving in the military.

•Decorate your door with a patriotic wreath you make or buy.

•Wear patriotic colors or decorated shirts.

•Make patriotic themed recipes. A fun and healthy recipe to make together as a family with a patriotic theme. I’ll share with you Patriotic Berry Parfaits.

These are healthy and a twist from traditional 4th of

July foods.

The main focus is family fun & making memories so the next generation will have those, “Remember when…” memories.

If you would like more information contact me at 501303-5672, email: kboulton@uada.edu or at the Extension office in Benton at 1605 Edison Avenue, Suite 15. You may also go to our website for more family life resources, visit the Family Life webpage for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service at https://www.uaex.uada.edu/life-skills-wellness/personal-family-well-being/.