It is so hard in the midst of busy family life to give your kids one on one time. Yet it is so important, especially for mothers and sons. IF you haven’t started this yet, consider establishing a mother- son date night, with Valentine’s right around the corner this is a perfect time. Boys have male figures in their life to teach them to be rough and tumble, to play sports, change the oil, and burp. Boys need their moms to teach them how to act like a young man- I am not saying daddy’s cant do this too, but for the future girls in their life mom’s can model that relationship. Teaching boys; chivalry, manners, and date etiquette is not only fun it strengthens the mother-son bond. I sure hope my daughters’ future husband has someone who teaches him how to treat a lady!
Dinner and a Movie -the first and probably most obvious. Teach your son to dress nice, open your door, pull out your chair, and use his manners. I think even though we are in 2014 and there is a cry to equality between the sexes, chivalry need not be dead.
Geocaching – Have you heard of this? It is so much fun! Geocaching is like a modern day treasure hunt. You can use a smart phone or hand held GPS to follow a set of coordinates to a hidden container that holds a small item and sometimes a log book for you to sign. You take whats in there and leave a trinket of roughly the same value/size. Go to http://www.geocaching.com/ to find out more.
Putt-Putt – This is a great way to teach your little man about being a gracious winner or loser, taking turns, and just having fun! Let him take the lead, or keep score. Lot’s of bonding will ensue no matter who wins!
Bowling – Another fun and competitive sport to use as a lesson. Even more fun in the dark with laser lights, glow in the dark paint, and wild music.
Sporting Event – Especially if this is something you have never done with your son before. Why should dad’s get all the fun? Take him to a game to see his favorite team- be it hockey, soccer, football, or baseball. Wear a hat or t-shirt to represent his team, and cheer along with him (take it easy though you don’t want to embarrass him too bad-lol)
Fishing – The great outdoors is a great place to get a boy to open up. Relaxing and quiet- this presents perfect opportunities for conversation (quietly-you don’t want to scare the fish away) laugh, exaggerate your catches, smile often.
Driving Lesson – Great for older boys. Let him practice driving, including a trip through the drive-thru for dinner. Sit in the parking lot somewhere munching on your meal and talking about nothing in particular
Cooking – Get in the kitchen together, whether you make the whole meal or just dessert. A man who knows his way around the kitchen will be a gem indeed! If you have a little guy, consider investing in one of these, much safer than standing on a chair! http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004CTA7Q2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3K90JHFOGRITA
Game Night – Board games, card games, puzzles. All of these can be done at home for an inexpensive date. Show him that it doesn’t always have to be expensive to be fun. Teach him your favorite game, let him show you his favorite.
Zoo or Aquarium – Animals are always a great bet, who doesn’t enjoy looking at baby animals, or silly monkeys? For smaller boys think about putting together a Zoo passport, Fold over several sheets of printer paper, draw or print out pictures of animals you might see there, include a check box.
Book Store – Head to Barnes and Nobles (Don’t forget to stop into the coffee shop) for little boys they have a wonderful childrens books section and a Thomas the train table that is there for playing with. For older boys they would probably enjoy the Fiction section or magazines.
Build Something – Lowe’s and Home Depot both offer fabulous monthly workshops for your budding DIY-er where you and your child can build a simple project together, complete with cute little aprons- and they are also free!