Family Project Time: 3 Home Projects You Can Work on Together
Restless energy and boredom can be alleviated by finding new and creative uses for your time. With the kids out of school and parents working from home, you may be finding yourself at home more than you’re used to you. How can you alleviate the frustration and boredom of that ‘Groundhog Day’ feeling?
How about fun DIY projects?! Using items that you already have on hand, ordering online or picking up a few items from your local improvement store you can work together as a family on that will not only give your home a little TLC, but also help you pass the time productively!
Project 1: Make a Birdhouse
Children and adults alike enjoy watching the antics of wildlife in the yard. Attracting them to your yard and creating a safe place for them to hang out will increase your viewing pleasure. Constructing a birdhouse is a fun and simple activity. You can easily order a pre-cut birdhouse kit online or pick one up at a local store. Even better, how about you design one yourself?
Cedar fence pickets are inexpensive here in Alaska and they are naturally weather resistant which makes them perfect for building a birdhouse! All you need are the cedar fence pickets, finish nails and a strong glue suitable for cedar. There are some great design ideas easily found on Google or Pinterest. The kids will enjoy helping you make it strong and sturdy, and afterward you can even paint and decorate it, if you’d like!
Project 2: Build a Raised Bed
We have all heard of the numerous health benefits of gardening. Gardening is known to improve mental and physical well-being. Children that participate in gardening are generally healthier due to exposure to sunshine and physical activity. It’s also beneficial for reducing anxiety, and increasing cognitive function, communication skills, and helps them score higher in science achievement.
Building a raised garden bed allows plants to thrive, because it is easier to maintain. The best part is that they are a simple DIY project. You only need 2×4’s, corner posts, wood screws and a drill! The garden beds are useful for fresh vegetables, herbs, or flowers. Another benefit of a garden bed is that they are a great outdoor classroom for kids, and as an added bonus you can grow delicious rewards!
Project 3: Mailbox Makeover
A fun artsy project would be to update your mailbox! Updating your mailbox can improve your curb appeal and help to further reflect your personal style. You can make it as simple as adding a coat of spray paint and some scrapbook paper, or you can add cast stone and reflective numbers! Work together as a family to design your personalized mailbox.
Some other ideas:
- Add flowerpots on each side of the mailbox, and pavers below
- Add vinyl decals
- Stain an old barn beam and add a copper mailbox for a vintage look
- Add hexagonal shapes or ombre coloring
- Plant flowers around your mailbox
DIY projects are a great way to pass the time while also upgrading your space. At your next family meeting sit down together and brainstorm what fun ideas you can come up with to give your house a little extra pizzaz!
