By Jill “MamaBug” Frier
Baseball season has arrived! Our family loves to go to baseball games. Not only does this activity let you get your kids out of the house, it also allows your family to see nature and science in action. Fresh air and bird watching abound, not to mention baseball statistics, field geometry and the aerodynamics of baseballs in action! Ladybug is a baseball kid and roots for the Arizona Diamondbacks like a pro. She is also learning more and more about America’s Greatest Pastime and the teams that play with each game we attend.
Baseball is a very kid-friendly sport. Most teams go out of their way to make sure that the whole family can enjoy a game together by providing activities and special extras just for kids. Take the time to find out what is available at your local ballpark before you go. Knowledge is power and can make your baseball adventure much more enjoyable.
One really cool aspect of baseball is how it can relate directly to science and mathematics. The Arizona Diamondbacks partnered with Chase and Insight in 2013 to develop and launch a program that promotes the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) for kids in the Arizona education system. The Arizona Diamondbacks Science of Baseball, presented by Chase and Insight each season, has reached over 6000 students in 100 schools – just one more reason to love going to a baseball game in Phoenix.
To get the most fun out of taking your kid to a baseball game, consider the following before you go:
- Buy your tickets in advance: Various prices and levels of tickets are available if you buy your tickets at the ballpark, but it’s a better idea to buy your tickets in advance so you know exactly what you’re getting. You can go online to pick your seat locations, stay within your price range, and make sure all of your seats are located together. The fewer surprises, the more fun for your family.
- Plan your parking strategy: There are usually many different parking options for a ballpark, but they vary in price and distance. It’s a good idea to know where you plan to park before you go, so you know how early you need to get there before the game and how much you need to spend on parking.
- Get there early: The parking, walking, waiting in lines and maneuvering your family into their seats takes time. There’s no way around it, so make it a point to get to the game early. Take a look at the ballpark information before you go, as the time they open the gates can vary from game to game. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat (especially if you are in Arizona), in the event you have to wait in line for the gates to open.
- Plan your meals: Eating is one of the main activities we do at a baseball game. Chase Field has so many options, it can be hard to choose. It’s a good idea to think about your snacking or mealtime strategy before you go.
- Take time to explain the game: One of the most important, and entertaining, aspects of going to a game with your kid is teaching them about the game itself. Explain scoring, hitting, running bases and teams. Older kids can get into stats and seasons.
- Bring a dose of patience: Whenever you are having a fun adventure with your kids, be sure to bring your patience with you. Make time for bathroom breaks, sightseeing, snacks, activities and gift shop trips. Enjoy seeing your kids have fun and realize that they need breaks and rest to make this activity a memorable one.
Last but not least – have fun! Baseball is a game, and games are all about having fun. This should be a fun adventure with your kids – make it one of the lifetime memories for your whole family.
Be sure to check out Ladybug’s Blog for more fun things to do outside with kids everywhere in Arizona!
