As someone who works closely with kids, I understand how important it is to find engaging and inclusive activities for all children, including those who are neurodivergent. Labor Day weekend offers a perfect opportunity to mix fun with learning, making the most of the extra time off school. I’ve compiled a list of seven Labor Day activities that will keep kids entertained while also providing educational value. These activities are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for every child, ensuring everyone can partake.
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1. Backyard Camping: An Adventure at Home
Why travel far when you can have an adventure in your backyard? Backyard camping is a great way to kick off your Labor Day activities for kids. It’s an adventure that takes you only a little from home but far enough from the daily routine to make it exciting. Set up a tent, roll out those sleeping bags, and prepare for a night under the stars.
But it’s not just about the fun. Backyard camping also allows kids to develop communication and teamwork skills, especially those with thinking and learning differences. As you set up the tent together or organize a mini scavenger hunt, you’re also helping them learn to work together and solve problems.
2. DIY Craft Fair: Unleashing Creativity
Next on our list of Labor Day activities for kids is a DIY craft fair. This is a wonderful way to channel your kids’ energy into creating something beautiful. Provide various materials – think clay, paint, beads, glitter – and let their imagination take the lead.
For neurodivergent kids, crafting can be a therapeutic and calming activity. It’s a chance for them to express themselves creatively while developing fine motor skills. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to keep them engaged and entertained over the long weekend.
Read more: 7 Fun Activities for Kids With ADHD
3. Labor Day-themed Baking: Fun in the Kitchen
Who can resist the joy of baking? Besides being enjoyable, baking also offers an exciting learning experience for children. This Labor Day, embark on a delightful culinary journey with thematic baking. Imagine the fun they’ll have with cookies shaped like tools or laborers’ hats—it’s an engaging and educational way to celebrate the significance of Labor Day.
And let’s not forget, baking is also a fantastic way to enhance their understanding of measurements and time. So, put on those aprons and let the baking adventure begin!
4. Community Service: Giving Back
Labor Day is all about celebrating workers’ hard work and contributions. What better way to honor this spirit than giving back to the community? Participating in a local clean-up drive or organizing one in your neighborhood can be a meaningful way to spend the day.
This activity instills a sense of responsibility in kids and helps them understand the importance of community service. It’s a valuable lesson in empathy and compassion, making it one of the most impactful Labor Day activities for kids.
5. Family Game Tournament: Fun and Games
Why not turn the long weekend into a fun-filled gaming tournament? Whether board games, card games, or video games, a family game tournament can be a fantastic way to bond and have fun. Plus, it’s an activity that all kids, including those who are neurodivergent, can enjoy.
Games are not just about winning or losing. They also help improve social skills and cognitive abilities. So, pick out your family’s favorite games and let the tournament begin!
How Goally Can Help on Labor Day
Amidst all these Labor Day activities for kids, Goally can be your perfect partner. This learning tablet designed specifically for kids, including those who are neurodivergent, can help keep them engaged and learning even during the holiday.
"So happy with our devices! My two with ASD and ADHD finally remember what they are supposed to do and the order of which to do them! The Goally has cute noises that sound to remind them if they get distracted and they love talking about what rewards they are earning their points for. They get excited to do their chores to earn points and more importantly it removes ‘naggy mom’ from the whole equation and no more feelings from them that they can’t do anything right!" — Goally Mom Learn more →
Goally’s apps are filled with fun and educational games that can complement the activities you have planned for the day. Whether it’s helping your child follow a baking recipe, setting reminders for the start of your DIY parade, or even winding down with a calming activity before the movie marathon, Goally is there to support and enhance your Labor Day weekend. It’s not just about keeping the kids busy; it’s about making learning fun and accessible for all.
6. DIY Parade: Celebrating Workers
Parades are a big part of Labor Day activities for kids. But who says you can’t have one at home? Organize a DIY parade in your backyard or living room. Let your kids dress up as their favorite workers and march around. It’s a fun way to teach them about different professions and the importance of Labor Day.
Plus, it’s a great opportunity for kids to express themselves and boost their confidence. So, get those costumes ready and let the parade begin!
7. Movie Marathon: Relax and Unwind
After all the fun and games, it’s time to relax and unwind with a movie marathon. Choose films that are appropriate for all ages and convey a positive message. It’s a comfortable environment for kids to express their feelings and thoughts.
Moreover, watching movies together as a family can be a bonding experience. It’s the perfect way to end your Labor Day weekend on a high note.
Goally | Apps To Support Child Development
Looking for fun ways to help your child learn life skills? Try Goally! The Goally tablet comes with award-winning learning apps and video classes to help kids develop the skills they need to become independent with FUN & evidence-based practices.
Our apps teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more.
As your child develops new skills, you can increase the difficulty level of the tasks in the app to challenge and motivate them even further. This helps your child grow and progress at their own pace, while also keeping them engaged and excited about their development.
There you have it – seven fun and educational Labor Day activities for kids. Make the long weekend memorable by spending quality time together, all while teaching them about Labor Day’s significance and the history behind this important holiday. Encourage your kids to ask questions and explore the meaning of labor and work in various fields. Let’s make this Labor Day weekend one to remember and foster a deeper understanding in our young ones. Happy Labor Day!
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FAQs about Labor Day Activities for Kids
What are some easy Labor Day activities for kids?
Kids can create patriotic crafts, participate in a backyard parade, or make themed cookies.
How can I teach my child about the significance of Labor Day?
Reading children's books about community workers or visiting local museums can help teach the meaning of Labor Day.
What outdoor activities are perfect for kids on Labor Day?
Picnics, family games like tag or frisbee, and nature scavenger hunts are great outdoor activities.
Can children help with planning Labor Day celebrations?
Yes, children can help by making decorations, setting tables, and choosing games to play.
What are some educational Labor Day activities for kids?
Creating a job-themed memory game or drawing a “When I grow up, I want to be” poster are educational and fun.
This post was originally published on 08/16/2023. It was updated on 07/24/2024.
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