Labour Day is just around the corner, and while it may be a day off for parents, kids still need activities to keep them engaged! Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a low-key day at home, incorporate some fun activities the whole family can enjoy together to celebrate the unofficial end of summer.
Outdoor Games
Set up a backyard obstacle course using hula hoops, buckets, rope, etc. Have races to see who can complete it the fastest. You can also play classic games like egg and spoon race, three-legged race, balloon stomp or bocce ball. Don’t forget about sidewalk chalk—have the kids design their own creative drawings and designs on the driveway or sidewalk.
Picnic in the Park
Pack a lunch and head to your local park for an outdoor picnic. Set up a picnic blanket and enjoy sandwiches, fruit, veggies, and snacks. Bring along balls, Frisbees, or kites to play with after eating. You could also visit the playground if your park has one. Be sure to clean up thoroughly once finished.
DIY Crafts
Get crafty with kids by making Labour Day-themed decorations together. Have them help construct paper chains out of red, white and blue construction paper to hang around the house. Other ideas include flower pots painted with patriotic colours, windsocks, or laminated placemats with kids’ handprints. Engage their creativity!
Water Play
On a hot summer day, incorporate some water play into Labour Day activities. Set up a sprinkler, kiddie pool or inflatable water slide in the backyard. Provide water toys, squirt bottles or water balloons for added fun. You could even plan a picnic by the community pool if possible. Just be sure to reapply sunscreen throughout.
Scavenger Hunt
Send kids on a backyard scavenger hunt for Labour Day-themed items like Canadian flags, red apples, blue jay feathers, etc. Provide a list and have them race to find all the items, checking them off as they go. You can make it a team game. The first team to finish wins a small prize!
Movie Night
Wrap up the day by hunkering down inside to watch a family-friendly movie together. Provide popcorn, fruit snacks and drinks for fuel. Classics like Sandlot, The Parent Trap or Ghostbusters are always fun Labor Day viewing options. Consider a short film if attention spans start waning. Don’t forget blankets and pillows for coziness.
Remembrance Activities
While Labour Day is meant as a fun end-of-summer celebration, kids must also understand its significance in honouring the Canadian workforce. Have an age-appropriate discussion about what workers do and why we celebrate. You could make thank you cards for essential workers, raise a flag at home, or research different careers together online. A few minutes of remembrance helps illustrate the holiday’s deeper meaning.
Plan Your Labour Day Fun!
Looking for a safe, educational place to celebrate Labour Day with your loved ones? Contact us today about our Labour Day Camp options at Angelic Treasures Christian Daycare. Our friendly, experienced staff will engage the kids with fun outdoor activities, arts and crafts, and more throughout the long weekend. Call or drop by our Mississauga location today to sign up—spaces are limited!