Last Look
SIMPLE WAYS 10
to Keep YOUR FAMILY HAPPY & HEALTHY This Fall.
F all ushers in cooler weather and beautiful foliage—but also busy back-to-school schedules and, for many parents, a growing awareness that the holidays are just around the corner. It’s a season when a family meal or quality time together can be hard to come by, and new school or work routines can leave everyone feeling a little out of sorts. To make this autumn more intentional, memorable, and mentally healthy for your family, explore these ten fun, family-friendly ways to help your crew stay happy and healthy.
Photo by Magnific
Cook a Weekly ‘Harvest’ Meal Once a week, cook a meal together using seasonal produce (squash, apples, root vegetables). Let kids help wash, stir, or measure. To get started, check out the delicious recipes on page 34. Give Back as a Family Take a moment and see how you can help others. Rake leaves for a neighbor, volunteer at a food bank, or donate lightly used toys or outgrown clothes to a local charity. To learn more about volunteer opportunities in OKC metro, visit metrofamilymagazine.com/family- volunteer-opportunities. Build a Gratitude Leaf Garland Starting in October, have everyone write one thing they’re grateful for each day on a paper leaf and add it to a growing garland, building up to a full display by Thanksgiving. It’s a nice way to foster gratitude and family reflection. Whether you choose to do one or all of these, the ultimate goal is unpressured time together—no perfect plan or experience required. The ordinary and unexpected moments often mean the most.
Get Outside & Stay Active Take Weekly Nature Walks Whether it’s a new trail, park or a different route through the neighborhood, get outside together. A little fresh air goes a long way in boosting everyone’s mood. And to keep younger kids engaged, add a simple scavenger hunt like finding a red leaf, acorn or pinecone. Start a Fall Fitness Challenge Create a family step goal or ‘miles walked’ chart for the season, with a fun reward—like a pumpkin patch trip— at the end. It’s a great tie-in to those weekly nature walks. Visit Your Local Library A trip to your local library is always full of fun and exploration. Check out a good book, see what activities and events are coming up, and create your own adventure. Find what’s happening near you at metrolibrary.org.
Rest & Connection
46 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026 Use the change of season as a natural prompt to ask kids what they’re excited or nervous about (school events or navigating friendships) and talk it through. Reserve a few hours each week where everyone takes a break from screen time (even you, parents). Instead, read a favorite book, play a board game, or bake a healthy snack. Check In Emotionally Reset Bedtime Routines As daylight shortens, use fall as a natural reset point for earlier, more consistent bedtimes and wind-down rituals. Even if activities have you getting home late, taking five minutes to talk about the next day’s schedule can make everyone feel more comfortable, confident, and prepared for the day ahead. Prep Meals on Sundays Spend an hour together prepping healthy grab-and-go breakfasts or lunches (think overnight oats, cut veggies, soup portions) so busy mornings feel less rushed and mealtime doesn’t feel overwhelming. Go Screen-Free Together
Seasonal Traditions & Giving Back
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