MUST-HAVES FOR FAMILY BASEBALL OUTING

Taking the whole family out for a baseball game is a great bonding activity. You get to spend time in the outdoors, cheer on your favorite team, and right when everyone states to get cranky, it's time to go home. It's not like a day at an amusement park or the zoo, which can test the limits of parents and children alike. Instead, you spend a few hours feeling the energy of the stadium, eat dinner, catch some fireworks and you're done

As you count down the days to the big game, take a few minutes to make sure you have everything you need to take care of the whole crew once you get there.

  • Sunscreen

Sitting outside for a few hours is no joke. Make sure the kids have extra SPF sunscreen to save you from babysitting some pretty uncomfortable lobsters the next day. Bring an infant baseball cap to make sure your youngest one has extra protection. The rest of the family can bring hats, too. This brings us to the next item: team gear!

  • Team Gear

Are you supporting a local team? Are you on the side of the visiting team? Show your support with gear - or at least wearing team colors - for the whole family. From the infant baseball cap to dad's baseball jersey, let the team logo show loud and clear.

  • Money for Hot Dogs and Drinks

You could try feeding the family before the game, but why go against the grain? Eating early could make you late to the game. Also, when you get to the game, you will all smell the delicious, fresh and hot food at the concession stands. Let the food and drinks be a part of the whole experience: messy mustard, ketchup, relish and all.

  • Any Posters or Signs

Depending on the age of your children, you might be able to have a poster decorating activity leading up to the big game. When there's a favorite player or beloved family team, break out the markers and glitter glue to make signs. Giving the kids flags to wave or posters to hold can help them get in the spirit and stay focused.

  • Shoes and Sweaters

Depending on where you live, having the right clothing can make a major difference. If you're at a huge stadium, make sure everyone has comfortable shoes. If it gets cold at night, bring sweaters to keep everyone warm. Bonus points if the sweaters or shoes match team gear like the infant baseball caps or T-shirts everyone is decked out in.

Finally, don't forget to grab a portable phone charger. If you're taking a lot of pictures or need phone games for the younger child, you'll want plenty of battery available.