Football season is back, and you know what that means: it's time to tailgate.
It's easy to think of the parking lot pregame as an excuse to throw back some beers and get a little rowdy. But it doesn't have to be all beer coolers and cornhole games like the college days.
A tailgate can be a great opportunity to have some outdoor fun with your family, and create a shared experience and love for the game with your kids.
Here are some ways you can make the tailgate an exciting and memorable afternoon for your children.
Meet the Mascot
Mascots put a fun face to the spirit of the teams that we love. While they get everyone riled up before the game, meeting the fuzzy, larger-than-life figures before the game can be a thrilling experience for your tykes.
Bring Plenty of Snacks
Getty ImagesEven if your kids aren't picky eaters and you're counting on them eating the same cookout fare as the adults, don't take any chances.
Be ready with trail mix, granola bars, and pre-chopped fruit and veggies that are easily accessible in case they can't wait for the burgers to cook or the pasta salad to be set up.
Bring a separate cooler full of water, juice and other drinks just for them so they don't get thirsty after running around all afternoon.
Set Up a Great Spot
Getty ImagesThere's usually so much going on at a tailgate -- don't compound unpredictability with a bad location. Arrive early to set up camp in a great spot depending on what you need.
Find a corner of the parking lot that's out of the way of busy foot traffic that will give your kids more open space to run around and play games.
Another good rule to go by: be near a bathroom! Have a plan ready for when your kid needs to go.
Get in the Games
Getty ImagesBe prepared with a few activities that will keep them occupied and get them in slaphappy mode. They probably will get bored if they have nothing to do.
Face painting is a great way to get them feeling silly and break the seal on what's going to be a messy day. Older kids may have fun with adult games like catch, washers or cornhole. Also come equipped with balls, crayons, coloring books, a few of their favorite toys, and games like Twister that don't require a lot of pieces.
Bring a Tent
Getty ImagesYou'll thank yourself for bringing a tent where your kids can go play by themselves and have a moment to rest if they get tired or even a little bored. It's gonna be a long and potentially sunny day, so create a space for them when things get to be too much.
Be Prepared for the Melt Down
Getty ImagesIt's not your kid's fault -- they just happen. Be flexible and acknowledge that bringing kids along won't be the same as tailgating with your friends. You might have to miss some great moments in the game to go to the bathroom or get a snack. You may even have to leave early if the tantrum gets really out of hand. But that just comes with the territory.
