Looking for tips for watching football with kids? We have a pretty solid family football routine going on at our house. It’s so good that I’m not even sure Tom and the kids realize I’ve created this routine for them.
Here’s the deal: Tom loves football and I hate it. Before we had kids, I would use that time to read, catch up on work, or do other fun things for myself. Now that we have kids, Tom sometimes feels guilty that he wants to watch football games on the weekend.
Lucky for Tom, the kids have recently become obsessed with watching sports with him. Now I get a bit of a break to read or cook dinner, and he gets special time with the boys. It’s a win/ win situation.
Usually I set out a snack for the whole family to enjoy during the game. Just because I’m not watching, doesn’t mean I don’t want to eat!
Here are my tips for watching football with kids
Pick one game to watch as a family (with or without mom)
Too many games in a weekend makes it a little less special. I’m not trying to limit the games that the football lover in your life watches, but I am saying that kids don’t need to be in front of the tv all weekend. If dad (or mom) really wants to watch several games, let the kids do something else during the other games.
Snack as a family
We always try to choose a food that the kids and parents like. It makes it more fun when we all snack together.
Get excited
Cheer on your favorite team! The kids love getting in on this one. Have them pick out the team that they want to win. Our kids always choose based on the color of the uniforms! This is a great way to teach colors and numbers to young kids.
Make it interactive
When a tackle occurs, everyone yells out tackle and either play tackles or tickles each other. When a touchdown occurs, spike a (soft) ball with your son or daughter. Give out high fives for good plays. Bottom line: don’t be afraid to be goofy with the kids. They’ll enjoy it a lot more!
Get comfy
Camp out of the couch, pull up some extra chairs, layer on the blankets. However you choose to do it, make sure you get comfy.
Allow everyone to participate
Just because the game is on, doesn’t mean everyone has to watch. It’s okay to let a non-sports fan read a book or do something else with the family while the game is on.
I usually read a book in the living room or prep dinner.
What are you favorite tips for enjoying football with kids? I’d love to hear more ideas!
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