5 simple activities to bring joy this autumn

I originally wrote this post back in autumn 2020, when we were in lockdown 2.0 and all feeling very fed up with being stuck at home. This year, for now at least, we have a lot more freedom. I came back to this post thinking I would change most of the autumn activities, but you know what, I stand by them. Whatever this autumn brings, I hope these ideas help you to soak up the season and enjoy a bit of hygge. 

The post is written with young families in mind, but my husband and I would definitely indulge in these autumn activities even without the kids around. It's good not to take yourself too seriously sometimes.

1. Watch the sunrise

One autumn morning in 2018 we decided to scoop up the kids, pyjamas and all and headed to South Shields beach to watch the sunrise. We hadn't planned on getting out of the car, but in the end, we couldn't resist. It was so beautiful and such a special moment. The kids really enjoyed the spontaneity of it (and the novelty of being out in pyjamas) and it made us feel warm and fuzzy for the rest of the day. This is a great one to do in autumn, as the mornings are staying dark for that bit longer now.

2. Transform the living room into a hygge haven and have a movie marathon

Build a camp, make a pillow fort, get some fluffy blankets, light some scented candles (out of the reach of children, of course), close the curtains. Snuggle a hot water bottle - and each other. Make it feel a bit different. Then stick something on the telly - Nomipalony has a fab guide to Halloween TV shows and films for young kids.

3. Take a walk and hunt for autumn treasures

The ground will soon start to fill with red and orange leaves, conkers and acorns. Stick on a warm coat and wellies and head out to one of our fantastic local forests or woodland - North East Family Fun has a fab guide to family walks & trails in the north east. Gather up your finds and take them home to make an autumnal display or to use in arts and crafts. 

If you aren't able to get out in nature at the moment, check out my post on 10 low-energy ways to connect with nature at home. 

4. Dive in a leaf pile

There's something so satisfying about collecting a huge pile of crunchy, fallen leaves and jumping right in it. Do it. Throw the leaves in the air and giggle. Yes, you - not just the kids. Be silly. You might just enjoy it 😉. The kids definitely will!

5. Go on a pumpkin hunt at Halloween

This idea was borne out of lockdown last year, with people avoiding visiting each other's homes. It's a good alternative to trick or treating if that's not your thing. Wrap up warm, head out into the neighbourhood and hunt for houses decorated for Halloween. 

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Do you have any special plans for autumn? Let me know if you try out any of these ideas - feel free to tag me in your photos on social media! You can share with me on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter. 

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