Simple Tips for Busy Families

MISSION, KS--(Marketwire - Oct 27, 2011) - (Family Features) Zipping around from one family activity to the next can be fun, but it requires a plan in order to juggle the busy schedule.

"Like so many parents, it can be a challenge to keep my active family organized, especially on the go," says Olympic gold medal figure skater and mom of two Kristi Yamaguchi. "I am thrilled to share with other moms and dads my favorite tips for unstoppable families."

1.) When a busy day has you skating from one activity to the next, it's important to be prepared. Bring along a backpack with everything you might need for your on-the-go day, including handheld snacks, like bananas and Smucker's® Uncrustables® PB&J sandwiches, water, sunscreen and easy activities for down time.

2.) Unstoppable families are always on the move. Post a large calendar in the kitchen or family room to capture and keep track of your family's weekly activities. Assign a different color marker to each member of the family. This will help keep everyone on time and in line.

3.) Let the games go green! Encourage creativity by finding ways to repurpose everyday items into fun activities. A drinking straw and some ribbon becomes a magic wand. Two painted paper towel rolls can become a pair of backyard binoculars. Reuse magazines to make colorful collages and other fun art projects.

4.) Sometimes fast-paced weekdays leave little time for family fun. Set aside time each weekend to enjoy the outdoors and each other's company. Plan hiking trips and bike riding adventures that will appeal to everyone. Put together a "scavenger list" with fun things to look for along the way like a yellow flower, a white cat, a BIG bug and other outdoor items.

5.) Have a little fun while on the run. Store books, games, markers and paper in the car to keep kids entertained on the road or in-between events. Also, make sure to have some kid-friendly tunes to keep the kids singing from your driveway to the soccer field.

6.) Ask around at your local community center or health club about family fitness classes. Try an aerobics or swimming class as a family; it will be a great way to stay active and spend time together.

7.) Like the title of my book Dream Big Little Pig, I always teach my kids they can accomplish anything with practice and perseverance. Encourage your kids to try their best at every activity they pursue and explore their interests no matter how sky-high. You might be raising an award-winning musician or the future President of the United States.

8.) Think outside the toy box when it comes to family activities. An old blanket quickly transforms into a magic carpet when spread across the living room floor. Couch cushions and bed sheets always make the best forts. A simple flash light becomes a projector for shadow puppets in a dark playroom. Use soccer balls, hula hoops and other everyday items to create a fun obstacle course in the backyard.

9.) My family spends a lot of time on the ice and it has shown us the importance of teamwork. Encourage your kids to join a local soccer or basketball team. They'll have fun while learning team building skills.

10.) Don't let a rainy day dampen your outdoor plans. Pitch a small tent in the living room and have a "camp in" complete with a construction paper campfire and sleeping bags. Weather the storms outside with tall tales shared over campfire treats.

For more great ideas visit www.uncrustables.com.

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