Do you need ideas for activities to do with kids? Tried and true suggestions that real moms actually do? Here they are! We’re asking families to share their favorites, to help you find yours.

Are you following @alsoknownasmamablog on Instagram? Local Dearborn mom, Lauren inspires fellow homeschooling families (myself included) with her easy to follow and inexpensive homeschool curriculum ideas. And recently Lauren wrote her first book to help support first-time homeschoolers (talk about perfect timing!). We are also loving her Tot School at Home guide that includes worksheets, game recommendations, and easy activity ideas for littles. Be sure to check it out- we know you’ll love it!

Meet Lauren

I’m Lauren, mama of two littles: Jackson (7) and Audrey (4). I grew up in the Detroit area, spent some time in Chicago, and now I’m back raising my family in Dearborn. We love the diverse culture in Dearborn, as well as its close proximity to Downtown. We’re a homeschooling family and I write about all things homeschool on my blog Also Known As Mama. I love connecting with other mamas and sharing our day-to-day adventures on Instagram.

Favorite Ways To Spend Family Time:

• Going on nature walks
• Playing board games
• Enjoying a family read-aloud

Favorite Places To Go:

• Henry Ford Estate (Dearborn) 
• The Henry Ford (Dearborn) 
• Indian Creek Zoo (Lambertville)

Favorite Bedtime Stories:

• Tikki Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel  
• Anything in the Little People, Big Dreams series
• Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin 

Favorite Dinner Recipes:

• Homemade Sloppy Joes
• Bite-Sized Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Zucchini Bread

Best Park/Playground: Ford Field Park (Dearborn)

Ford Field has something for everyone. We enjoy the nature trails along with Rouge River in the Fall, the sledding hill in the Winter, picnics in the Spring, and feeding the ducks in the Summer.

Your Mom Must Have: Podcasts

I would be lost without podcasts. They make me feel sane on my craziest parenting days. Some of my favorites are The Homeschool Sisters, This American Life, and (to listen to with the kids) Brains On!. 

Best Family-Friendly Annual Event: Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village

Caroling in a horse-drawn carriage through historic Greenfield Village? Sign me up. We look forward to this event all year, as it’s one of the rare times we get to experience the Village at night, and during the colder months.

Best Fall Destination: Henry Ford Estate (Deaborn)

We are so lucky to have this gem in our backyard. Walking around the grounds of Henry and Clara Ford’s home in Fall is something every Detroiter should do at some point. You never know what wildlife you’ll encounter on a trip to The Estate – we’ve seen deer, bullfrogs, painted turtles, and even wild turkeys!

“Pat Yourself on the Back” Accomplishment: Writing A Book

This summer I wrote a book to help new homeschool moms get started on a budget. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. The fact that I’ve been able to start a little business while helping overwhelmed moms, makes my heart very happy.

Photo credit: @alsoknownasmamablog 

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