To start, we turn raking into a friendly competition. We divide the yard into sections and challenge the kids to see who can collect the most leaves in their area. Setting a timer adds excitement and urgency, and the kids love racing against the clock. To keep it light-hearted, we reward the winner with a small treat or extra screen time for the day.

Another fun twist is to create “leaf piles” for jumping. Once we’ve raked a significant amount of leaves, I let the kids jump into the piles we’ve created. It’s an exhilarating experience for them and makes the hard work of raking feel worthwhile. They laugh and squeal as they dive into the crunchy leaves, creating lasting memories in the process.

We also get creative by using leaves to make art projects afterward. Kids can collect different shapes and colors of leaves to use for crafts like leaf rubbings or collages. This way, the fun continues even after the raking is done.

By turning leaf raking into a game, we not only tackle the yard work together but also enjoy quality family time and celebrate the beauty of autumn in Bedford. So grab those rakes and let the games begin!

The post Turning Leaf Raking into a Fun Family Game first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Turning Leaf Raking into a Fun Family Game appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

One of the best places to explore is the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Just a short drive from Bedford, this park offers some excellent opportunities for bouldering and rock climbing. While it’s not a traditional climbing destination, there are several natural rock formations and cliff faces throughout the park that make for a great challenge, especially in the areas around the Virginia Kendall Ledges. The Ledges Trail provides stunning views of sandstone cliffs, and climbers can often find accessible bouldering spots to test their skills.

For those seeking more structured climbing experiences, there are also local climbing gyms, like Cleveland Rocks or Shaker Rocks, where you can take classes or practice your skills indoors before hitting the outdoor terrain. These gyms are perfect for both beginners and advanced climbers looking to hone their techniques in a controlled environment.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced climber, rock climbing near Bedford is an exciting and rewarding way to enjoy the outdoors this fall. So lace up your climbing shoes, grab some chalk, and take on the challenge of climbing the beautiful rock formations just a short drive from home!

The post Rock Climbing Adventures Near Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Rock Climbing Adventures Near Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Setting up an outdoor movie night is easier than you might think. Start by choosing a family-friendly movie that everyone will enjoy. Once you have your film picked out, gather your supplies. You’ll need a projector (or a large screen), a portable speaker for better sound, and a comfy spot to sit. Blankets and lawn chairs work great for seating, and don’t forget cozy pillows to snuggle up with!

As the sun sets and the stars come out, it’s time to create the perfect atmosphere. String up some fairy lights for a magical touch, and consider setting up a small fire pit for warmth and roasting marshmallows. You can even create a simple snack bar with popcorn, candy, and hot chocolate to enhance the experience.

To make it more interactive, encourage the kids to dress up in their favorite movie characters or have them create themed decorations for the movie night. This adds an extra layer of excitement to the event.

Hosting an outdoor movie night is a wonderful way to embrace the beauty of fall while enjoying quality time as a family. As the leaves fall and the nights grow cooler, gather your loved ones, cozy up, and enjoy a cinematic adventure under the stars right in your own backyard!

The post Cozy Family Nights: Hosting an Outdoor Movie Night at Home in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Cozy Family Nights: Hosting an Outdoor Movie Night at Home in Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

One popular option is visiting local farms with pumpkin patches. Just a short drive from Bedford, these farms offer a chance to pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating. Many also feature hayrides, apple picking, and scenic fall views, making them a great spot for families and friends to spend a day outdoors.

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, nearby corn mazes are a must-try. Farms in the surrounding areas create intricate mazes for you to explore, with varying levels of difficulty to suit everyone’s preferences. Some even offer night-time corn maze events for an added touch of excitement and fun under the stars.

In addition to pumpkins and corn mazes, many of these farms have additional fall-themed activities like hayrides, farm markets with fresh produce, and autumn treats like cider and donuts. It’s a great way to celebrate the season and enjoy the cooler weather.

So grab your sweater, round up your friends or family, and head out to one of these nearby farms for a day full of fall festivities. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect pumpkin or getting lost in a corn maze, you’re sure to have a great time!

The post Fall Fun: Pumpkin Picking and Corn Mazes Near Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Fall Fun: Pumpkin Picking and Corn Mazes Near Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

To get started, gather some natural materials from your yard or local park. Items like pinecones, twigs, acorns, and dried leaves work well. You’ll also need string or twine, a stick or branch as the base, and some non-toxic glue. For added fun, consider adding beads or bells for extra jingles.

1. Prepare the Materials: Collect various natural items. Clean and dry them if necessary.
2. Assemble the Base: Use a stick or branch as the base. Tie strings of varying lengths to the base, making sure they’re secure.
3. Attach Decorations: Glue the natural items to the ends of the strings. Allow the glue to dry thoroughly.
4. Add Extra Touches: If desired, you can add beads or small bells to the strings for extra sound and color.

Once completed, hang your wind chime in a spot where it can catch the breeze, such as a tree branch or porch. The gentle sounds of your homemade chime will add a charming touch to your garden and remind everyone of the fun day spent crafting together.

The post Crafting Nature Wind Chimes: A Fun Outdoor Activity for Kids This Fall first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Crafting Nature Wind Chimes: A Fun Outdoor Activity for Kids This Fall appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

One of the top places to go tubing near Bedford is the Cuyahoga River. This iconic river, which winds its way through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, offers a perfect mix of gentle currents and scenic views, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing tubing trip. Local outfitters in nearby towns like Peninsula offer tube rentals and shuttles, so you can easily float down the river without a care in the world. The experience is perfect for all ages, making it a great family outing or a fun day with friends.

For a more adventurous ride, head to the Mohican River in Loudonville. Known for its slightly faster currents and twists, tubing on the Mohican River adds a bit more excitement to your float. The surrounding forest and wildlife make for a picturesque backdrop as you drift along. Outfitters in the area provide everything you need, including tubes, life jackets, and transportation.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful float down the Cuyahoga or a more thrilling ride on the Mohican, tubing near Bedford is an awesome way to cool off during these warm August days. Grab your sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a waterproof speaker, and get ready for a day of fun on the water!

The post Cool Off with a Tubing Adventure Near Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Cool Off with a Tubing Adventure Near Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Planning the Hunt:

1. Create a List of Items: Design a list of items for the scavenger hunt that encourages exploration and creativity. For example:
   • A smooth rock
   • A feather
   • A colorful leaf
   • A small toy or figurine
   • A flower with five petals
   • A piece of string
   • A coin with a date from the 2000s
2. Setting Up the Hunt: Choose a safe and interesting location for the hunt, such as a local park, your backyard, or even inside your home. Hide the items in various places, making sure they are challenging but not too difficult to find.

Suggestions for Different Settings:

• For Apartments: If you live in an apartment, create an indoor scavenger hunt. Use common household items and hide them in different rooms. For instance, you might hide a spoon under a cushion, or a book in a closet.
• For Younger Children: If you’re organizing a hunt for younger children, simplify the list and use visual clues or pictures. For example, include items like “a red ball” or “a soft toy,” and provide images of these items to help them understand.

A scavenger hunt is a wonderful way to get kids moving and thinking, all while having a blast!

The post Fun for All: Organizing a Scavenger Hunt for Kids Ages 8 to 11 first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Fun for All: Organizing a Scavenger Hunt for Kids Ages 8 to 11 appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

The Great Falls of Tinker’s Creek is not just a beautiful natural feature; it’s a testament to Bedford’s rich history and scenic allure. Part of the Cleveland Metroparks, this stunning overlook includes historic elements from a long-gone mill, adding a touch of history to the natural beauty. As the largest tributary of the Cuyahoga River, Tinker’s Creek was named for the principal boatsman of Cleveland’s first survey crew, marking its significance in the region’s development.

Now designated as a National Natural Landmark, the Great Falls of Tinker’s Creek is a true gem within the Bedford Reservation. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the falls, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of cascading water. It’s a perfect spot for a summer outing, whether for a peaceful picnic or a scenic hike.

This recognition on Cleveland’s summer bucket list is a reminder of the hidden treasures within our own community. Bedford offers residents and visitors alike a chance to connect with nature, explore local history, and take pride in the natural wonders that make our city special. So this summer, make sure to celebrate Bedford’s unique charm and enjoy the beauty of the Great Falls of Tinker’s Creek.

The post Highlighting Bedford: A Gem in Cleveland’s Summer Bucket List first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Highlighting Bedford: A Gem in Cleveland’s Summer Bucket List appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

One of the best parts about stargazing in July is spotting constellations like the Big Dipper (Ursa Major) and the Little Dipper (Ursa Minor). They’re pretty easy to spot and really get the kids excited about how big and amazing the universe is.

Besides the constellations, stargazing is a chance for kids to learn about stars, planets, and sometimes even catch a shooting star or two during a meteor shower. It’s a great way to spark their interest in space and science.

Getting ready for stargazing is simple. Find a spot away from all the city lights, throw down some blankets or set up some chairs, and maybe bring along a stargazing app or a guidebook to help find the constellations. Let your kids ask questions and share what they see—it’s all about exploring and having fun together.

Stargazing in Bedford brings us closer to the stars and makes for some really special family moments under the night sky. It’s a time to relax, learn, and be amazed by the beauty of the universe above us.

The post Stargazing: Enjoying the Night Sky with Your Kids first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Stargazing: Enjoying the Night Sky with Your Kids appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

First off, let’s talk about the Bedford Reservation, part of the Cleveland Metroparks. If you haven’t already, you need to check out Tinker’s Creek. It’s a great place to reel in bass, bluegill, and catfish. Plus, the views of the gorge are absolutely stunning, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful day outdoors.

Viaduct Park is another gem that we’re lucky to have close by. Fishing in the Cuyahoga River here is not just about catching fish; it’s about the whole experience. The historic viaduct and beautiful waterfalls create a picturesque setting. You might catch smallmouth bass, northern pike, or walleye. It’s a favorite spot for many of us, and for good reason!

If you’re up for a short drive, head over to the East Branch Reservoir in Aurora. It’s worth the trip. The reservoir is well-known for its largemouth bass, crappie, and yellow perch. The facilities are well-maintained, and the setting is tranquil, providing a perfect backdrop for a day of fishing.

So, grab your fishing gear, pack a picnic, and head out to one of these fantastic spots. Whether you stick close to Tinker’s Creek or venture out to the East Branch Reservoir, you’re sure to have a memorable fishing adventure right here in and around Bedford.

The post Fishing Adventures in and Around Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Fishing Adventures in and Around Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.