30 Things to Do with Kids in September

Make the most of September with kids by trying out these 30 engaging activities! Whether it's indoor crafts or outdoor adventures, this blog post offers something for every family to create lasting memories. Keywords: September with Kids, family fun, educational activities, parenting, autumn.

Hello, fellow adventurers! I’m Kandice Kelso, your guide through the whirlwind of parenting and the creative brain behind “A Cotton Kandi Life.” With over a decade of parenting and adventure planning experience, and a couple of delightful boys—My Sweet & Sticky—who have thrived through preschool homeschool and now enjoy public school, I’m here to help you navigate the wonderful month of September with kids.

30 Things to Do with Kids in September

September is that magical time when the air turns crisp, and the promise of colorful leaves and new beginnings fills the air. It’s the perfect month to dive into both indoor and outdoor adventures that engage, entertain, and educate your little ones. So, buckle up for a month filled with fun, learning, and a little sprinkling of magic!

1. Visit a Local Farm

Kick off September with a family visit to a local farm. It’s harvest season, so you’ll find plenty of opportunities to pick apples, wander through pumpkin patches, and maybe even take a hayride. Plus, who can resist fresh farm cider?

2. Back to School Planning

September is synonymous with new school beginnings. Get your family organized with a fun back-to-school planning session. Involve the kids in setting goals for the school year and maybe even personalize some school supplies!

For At-Home Preschool, here are all of my Mom School | Themes for September

3. Make a Homework Station

Designate a cozy corner of your home for a homework station. Let your kids help choose decorative elements and supplies to make it their own. A space they love can make homework a more inviting task.

See our Homework S t ations for Kinder-3rd Grade At-Home Learning!

4. Explore Waterfall Hikes

If you’re lucky enough to live near some beautiful hiking trails, September is the perfect time to explore them. Waterfall hikes offer stunning views and a sense of adventure that can captivate kids and parents alike.

Here is our Adventure from Silver Falls State Park | Oregon Adventures with Kids

5. Visit a College Football Game

Nothing says fall like a good college football game. The atmosphere, the excitement, and the cheering crowds make for a memorable family outing. Don your team colors and enjoy the game-day spirit!

Check out all of our Adventures for Oregon Kids in September!

6. Launch a Homeschool

For those considering homeschooling, September is a great time to start. Dive into the world of educational resources and create a curriculum that suits your family’s needs. My Sweet & Sticky had a blast with preschool homeschooling, and it can be a rewarding experience for you too.

Read all about my journey on How to Establish a Homeschool Classroom

7. Flashcard Organizing

Turn a rainy day into a learning opportunity by organizing flashcards with your children. It’s a simple, yet effective way to make studying more interactive and fun.

8. September Themed Sensory Bins

Check out September-themed sensory bins from Cotton N’ Kandi on Etsy. They’re perfect for engaging the senses and can be tailored to any educational theme you choose.

Shop all of my September Sensory bins from Cotton N’ Kandi on Etsy!

9. Print and Play Escape Rooms

Spice up your family game night with print and play escape rooms available for the month of September on Etsy. These rooms are a great way to encourage teamwork and problem-solving.

Print & Play a September-Themed Escape Room from my Etsy Shop!

10. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Create a list of items to find in nature and head to a local park or trail. It’s a fantastic way to get the kids moving and observing their surroundings.

11. Build a Birdhouse

Grab some supplies and build a birdhouse together. Not only is it a fun craft, but it also teaches kids about nature and caring for wildlife.

12. Stargazing Night

Clear skies and cooler evenings make September perfect for stargazing. Lay out some blankets and bring along a telescope or star chart to identify constellations.

13. DIY Autumn Crafts

Gather some leaves, pinecones, and acorns, and let your creativity run wild with DIY autumn crafts. From leaf prints to pinecone animals, the possibilities are endless.

14. Visit a Museum

For those rainy September days, consider visiting a local museum. Whether it’s art, science, or history, museums are treasure troves of knowledge and inspiration.

15. Host a Family Movie Night

Pick a cozy evening, make some popcorn, and enjoy a family movie night. Choose films that are both entertaining and age-appropriate for your little ones.

16. Try a New Recipe

Encourage your kids to help you in the kitchen and try a new recipe together. It’s a fun way to teach them about cooking and maybe even sneak in a little math with measurements.

17. Attend a Local Festival

September is full of local festivals celebrating everything from apples to art. Check out what’s happening in your area and go explore!

18. Create a Leaf Collection

Collect leaves of different shapes and colors, then press them into a scrapbook or frame them for display. It’s a lovely way to capture the beauty of fall.

19. Plan a Family Picnic

Pack a basket with your favorite snacks and head to a local park or even your backyard for a relaxing family picnic.

20. Visit a Botanical Garden

Explore the vibrant blooms and lush foliage at a local botanical garden. It’s a peaceful way to spend an afternoon and learn about different plant species.

21. Storytime in the Park

Grab a blanket and a stack of books for a storytime session in the park. The fresh air and change of scenery add a fun twist to reading time.

22. Go on a Bike Ride

Dust off the bikes and enjoy a family ride through your neighborhood or along a local trail. It’s great exercise and a wonderful way to explore.

23. Camp in the Backyard

Pitch a tent in your backyard and enjoy a night under the stars without leaving home. Don’t forget the marshmallows for roasting!

24. Create a Fall-Themed Playlist

Compile a playlist of fall-themed songs and have a dance party in your living room. It’s a joyful way to welcome the new season.

25. Paint Pumpkins

Instead of carving, try painting pumpkins this year. It’s less messy, safer for younger kids, and just as much fun.

26. Volunteer Together

Find a family-friendly volunteer opportunity in your community. It’s a meaningful way to spend time together and give back.

27. Visit a Library

Take advantage of the library’s resources by checking out books, attending storytime sessions, or participating in special events.

28. Make Homemade Ice Cream

Even as the weather cools, ice cream is always a hit. Make your own at home with the kids’ favorite flavors and toppings.

29. Explore a New Town

Take a day trip to a nearby town you haven’t explored yet. Discover new parks, shops, and eateries for a fresh adventure.

30. Reflect on Summer Memories

As summer turns to fall, take time to reflect on the past few months with your kids. Create a scrapbook or simply share favorite memories over dinner.

That’s a Wrap!

September with kids is a month full of excitement and exploration. From educational adventures to creative crafts and outdoor escapades, there’s something for every family to enjoy. For more inspiration and lesson planning, visit my main page on “A Cotton Kandi Life” where you’ll find a wealth of resources, including Mom School lesson plans and printables available in my Cotton N’ Kandi Etsy shop. Here’s to a September filled with learning, laughter, and love!

Welcome to Mom School!

This post is one of many Homeschool Preschool Lessons with #MySweetandSticky {Cash & Wyatt}. As a former educator, I wanted to give them their best start before heading into public schools. (Which we LOVE!) On occasion, and throughout the summer, we continue our At-Home Learning. Join us for every Sweet & Sticky moment.

Read all about:

Mom School & Building your At-Home Classroom
The Literacy Corner
The Mess Mat Follow our Hashtag #TheMessMat
Sensory Play

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