7 Tips for Bringing Your Kids to a Football Game

 

Where did summer go? How can football be upon us already? With the season right around the corner, you might be considering bringing your kids to a game this year. There’s nothing quite like enjoying the game that signifies one of America’s greatest past times.

 

If your kids haven’t experienced a football game yet, you’ll want to be prepared. There are ways to get them involved and excited by the plays on the field, but there are tips to follow for when they get tired or need a break from the action, which is even more important for a weekend game, as it will likely take up most of the day.

Tip #1: Bring sunscreen. Football schedules start in late August, which in most cities still means summer-type weather. Just because football is a fall sport doesn’t mean that the weather knows to follow suit. Especially if you plan to arrive early, make sure you apply sunscreen to your kids before they leave the house, but also bring some with you to reapply as needed.

Tip #2: Pack snacks. While you may want to let your kids enjoy the concessions, it can add up and become expensive and add up quickly. It’s always nice to have fresh fruit or pretzels on hand so they don’t feel the need to keep going back for more nachos/hot dogs/candy—which could lead to a terrible belly ache and present a whole new list of problems for you. Also, bring a jug of water or smaller cooler full of individual bottles to keep yourself and them hydrated and away from the soda.

 

Tip #3: Plan for activities. Although the football game is considered the main event, young kids are unpredictable and may become bored before you even make it to halftime. Bring along coloring books or a couple of toys for them to play with so they don’t get antsy. They’ll most likely just enjoy being part of the rowdy atmosphere, whether or not they are actually watching the game.

 

Tip #4: Get them involved. One thing to help get your kids excited for some football is by making them an active part of the festivities. Get them a special jersey made or make a sign ahead of time to bring along and cheer on their favorite players. If your school allows fans to be part of the tunnel the team runs out through, stand with your kids to let them enjoy the experience firsthand.

 

Tip #5: Pack blankets. When fall weather does kick in and nights become chillier, make sure to pack sweatshirts and blankets either to sit on or cover up with. You might want to just to keep clothing layers, such as long-sleeved shirts, gloves, scarves, and hats, in the car for football season so you never have to worry about leaving home without them. Get these items with your team’s logo on them to show even more team spirit.

Tip #6: Plan for the pros. If you’ve already taken your children to a high school football game and want to attend a collegiate or professional one this year, make sure you give yourself enough time to deal with traffic, parking, and the crowds that come with the bigger games. Once you arrive at the stadium, it’s a good idea to get the first bathroom break out of the way because once you’re in your seats, it’ll most likely be harder to get out.

 

Tip #7: Grab souvenirs. Every kid needs a foam finger and many games now have free giveaways (usually specifically for the kids) which can make the game that much more exciting for them. Just walking into a new stadium will make your kids feel in awe, at least for a little while.

 

Afterwards, recap with your kids and ask them what parts they liked best. Don’t feel like you have to rush out right away. Let the crowd clear and explore the stadium or let your kids stretch their legs and run around a little bit.

 

You may not be able to attend every game, but you can start the excitement early by planning your own family watch parties with simple, game day snacks and the game on in the living room. When it comes to football season, there are a lot of different aspects to enjoy, but going to an actual game is an experience every kid should have at least once in their lives.

 

Attending a football game is part of many people’s childhoods and they share fond memories of attending sporting events with their parents from when they are very young. It can become a family tradition and something you and your kids share a passion for as they grow older as you join together to root on the home team. Go Steelers!