Do-Together Activities for Parents and Kids

Remember how much you loved dancing before you had kids and stopped sweating over anything that didn't involve a runaway stroller? If you rocked hip-hop moves like a music video star, why not give your kids a chance to try out your dancin' passion? After all, children thrive on one-on-one time with their parents, so some face-time in the studio will be invaluable, even if they can't follow Beyonce's choreography!

Jamming out at concerts, cross-country skiing or surfing—there's no time like the present to introduce your kids to all of the cool stuff you USED to die for. We're not suggesting that you take your tike for an afternoon of skydiving, but lots of activities are perfect for family-friendly fun, so give 'em another try with the kids in tow.

How to include your brood in your passionate pursuits?

Safety first! Tons of adventurous activities can be tailored for kids. Even those who are comfortable swimming can put on floaties and life vests for a little above-the-surface snorkeling. Obviously, you're not going to strap a tank to a toddler for scuba diving, so be wise when choosing your family fun and always follow safety regulations!

Dial down the stuffiness. If you are a passionate sophisticate, don't think you're kids can't join in your fun. Remember how much you used to love books without pictures? Bring the kids along to read one because many bookstores have play areas, weekly music or story time, and gotta love 'em, coffee shops right inside for mutual parent/child enjoyment! Or maybe you're an opera enthusiast? If you think an opera house might be a little boring for your kids, think again. Many offer children's programs like backstage tours where they can check out cool props and actual costumes up close. To find a theater near you, check out OperaStuff.com

Being passionate on the cheap. You don't have to charter a private plane for a spontaneous family trip to follow the Jo Bros on tour to make memories with your kids-although, please take us with you if that's your plan! Instead, try something special like a free concert in the park or cooking an exotic meal at home with the whole family. We're all for pinching pennies-as long as you have fun doing it!

Passing your passions along will give you and the kids a positive way to relate to each other in years to come . . . trust us, it's a lot easier to bond over an activity than trying to keep up with tweenage slang!