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Area Attractions Blog Events Family Fun Kyle Texas

Community Connections: Local Volunteering Opportunities

There are an endless number of ways that a person can spend their free time, but few are as nurturing to both the individual and others as volunteering. The need for volunteers across many areas has only increased in recent years, making volunteers even more vital to many non-profits and charities.

 

If you have a heart for giving back, consider donating your time and skills to some of these organizations around Kyle and beyond. 

 

Provide a Meal

 

One of the best ways to give back to the community is by giving a meal. Roughly 1 in 8 Texans don’t know where their next meal is coming from, but there are thankfully a variety of organizations in our area working to change this. 

 

Hays County Food Bank: This area food bank serves an average of 153,000 individuals every year. In addition to providing food, it also helps to provide people with job opportunities to reduce the risk of hunger. A variety of volunteer opportunities are open to both individuals and groups.

 

Meals on Wheels: Whether it’s because of a lack of a vehicle or disability, many adults don’t have a means of getting to the grocery store. Meals on Wheels is an army of dedicated volunteers who cook delicious and nutritious meals for residents and then bring those meals to them. Through this volunteer work, they’re able to serve over 5,000 residents in Central Texas. 

 

Spread Community Goodwill

 

Women of Unity: This local non-profit is dedicated to helping women of all ages and backgrounds find their purpose and make a positive change in their lives, families, and communities. The program is always in need of women who want to help other women through life/career coaching, prayer support, and other mentoring needs. 

 

Adopt a Street: Taking pride in how one’s community looks is always a good thing, and the City of Kyle has a way for residents and groups to do just that. To help keep Kyle beautiful, organizations, businesses, and individuals can adopt one mile of a street and volunteer to keep it looking good through clean-up days four times a year. 

 

Keep The Party Going

 

Kyle has some fantastic community events many of these simply wouldn’t be possible without volunteer help. 

 

Pie in the Sky Festival: Kyle’s famous hot air balloon and pie extravaganza draws thousands of visitors every year. To make this event a standout success year after year, dozens of volunteers are needed to help with parking, ticketing, vendor services, and parking. If you’d like to help, email Lauren at llyons@cityofkyle.com 

 

Holiday on the Square: Each Christmas, Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park is transformed into a holiday wonderland with a tree lighting, carolers, Santa appearances, and food and drink vendors. Volunteers are part of the holiday magic that to keep this tradition alive. While this year’s event is still months away, it’s never too early to be thinking about how you can get involved when December rolls around.

Volunteering is a great way to strengthen community connections and build up the place you call home. If you’d like to find a home in Kyle, reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more.

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Area Attractions Family Fun Kyle Texas Tips

Family-Friendly Hikes in the Texas Hill Country

Spring is one of the best times to get outside and enjoy our state’s natural beauty before the summer heat makes a midday hike unbearable. Lace up your boots, grab the fam, and consider exploring some of these nearby parks and trails. 

 

Reimers Ranch Park: This Travis County park draws in thousands of visitors every year who flock to it for a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Rock climbers love it for the limestone cliffs, and mountain bikers can’t get enough of its 18 miles of trails. 

 

Don’t let the more adventurous appeal of this park put you off when it comes to a family-friendly hike, though. The park has several trails that are only open to hikers and include both granite and dirt hiking trails. The park also offers monthly guided bird-watching hikes that are included as part of the park’s daily entrance fee. 

 

Guadalupe River State Park: It’s easy to understand why this park is such a popular spot in the summer. There’s really no better way to beat the Texas heat than tubbing down the Guadalupe River.

 

Tubbing season may still be a few months away, but this park still has plenty worth checking out for a daytime visit. The park offers 13 miles of trails that range from the 2.86-mile Painted Bunting Trail to the 0.3-mile River Overlook Trail. Be sure to stop by the Discovery Center before or after your hike to learn more about the park’s natural wildlife and history. The park also offers RV and tent sites, making it a great choice for a relaxing weekend retreat. 

 

Pedernales Falls State Park: Located about 50 minutes northeast of Kyle, this tranquil state park is best known for its huge slabs of limestone. The park offers a range of outdoor recreation, including horseback riding, mountain biking, swimming, and, of course, lots of hiking opportunities. 

 

The range of trail difficulties makes it a great choice for family-friendly hiking of all skill levels. Families with younger children will enjoy the .5-mile Twin Falls Nature Trail. At the same time, those with more experienced and adventurous hikers may want to tackle the 6-mile Wolf Mountain Trail.

 

Enchanted Rock: A Hill Country hiking list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Enchanted Rock State Park. The pink granite dome that rises out of the Texas landscape has been attracting visitors for thousands of years, and that attraction continues today. 

 

The park includes 11 miles of hiking trails. While a climb to the top of the rock may not be in the cards for the littlest members of your family, the Interpretive Loop trail is on the easier side. There’s no wrong time to visit the park, but for a truly awesome experience, opt for sunset and linger a little longer for some stargazing. 

You don’t have to venture far for some great hiking in the Kyle area. It’s one of the many things that make this part of Texas so appealing. To learn more and find your dream home here, contact the Crosswinds team today.

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Area Attractions Blog Events Family Fun Kyle Texas

March Madness: Where to Watch the Big Game

With Selection Sunday just around the corner on March 17 and this year’s NCAA tournament beginning Tuesday, March 19, now’s the time to start thinking about where you’ll want to watch all the March Madness action.

 

Here are a few of our favorite spots to catch all the college sports action (and enjoy some delicious food and drink) around Kyle.

 

Centerfield – From baseball in the spring to football in the fall and basketball in the winter, there’s never a wrong time to pull up a stool at this local sports bar. You’re guaranteed to have a good eyeliner on the TV no matter where you sit, and you can’t beat the specials like taco and tequila Tuesday, whiskey and wings Wednesday, or chef’s specials on select game days. 

 

Glenn’s Bar and Grill – Glenn’s, located on the Plum Creek Golf Course, is an obvious hangout spot when the Masters tournament rolls around, but don’t overlook it for hoops action. The newly remodeled restaurant and bar serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but what really makes it a perfect March Madness spot is the 100” projector. Be sure to grab a good seat for the April 8 championship game because Glenn’s will no doubt be packed. 

 

Wicked Wings – There are few things that go better with March Madness than a basket of tasty wings and a cold beer… and Wicked Wings has both of them! In addition to its wing selection, the restaurant also offers up pizzas, burgers, and an assortment of sandwiches. And if you’re not ready to go home yet after the game is over, stay a little longer for karaoke. 

 

Willie’s Ice House – The folks at Willie’s are obviously doing something right because, for three decades, they’ve been bringing good times and cold beer to Texans across the state. The Houston-based chain has a location here in Kyle, and with multiple TVs and menu items like Chipolte Ribeye Tacos and their signature crawfish, you’re guaranteed not to be hungry during the basketball action. 

 

Bucks Backyard – Just up the road in nearby Buda, sports fans can find Bucks. This sports bar/restaurant/music venue is a shoo-in for a good time – no matter what night of the week you stop by. The bar’s main area has plenty of TVs so that you don’t miss a minute of sports action. Plus, there are pool tables, games like Big Buck Hunter, and a full food and drink menu. Come for the March Madness kickoff on Tuesday, and then swing back by for live music on Fridays and Saturdays. 

While it can be a heck of a lot of fun to cheer on your favorite team at a local restaurant or bar, sometimes the comfort of your own living room can’t be beaten. If you’d like to learn more about finding a home in the master-planned Crosswinds community, reach out to us today.

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Blog Homebuilder Homeowner Tips Kyle Texas Tips

Navigating the 2024 Real Estate Landscape: Tips for Homebuyers

Buying a house is a major financial decision, regardless of what’s going on in the housing market. Nevertheless, buying a home in 2024 is a different animal than it was even a few years ago. 

 

While there is some not-so-great news for homebuyers in 2024, there are bright spots on the horizon, too. 

 

Market Trends

 

While 2023 was marked by high prices and high interest rates, there could be light at the end of the tunnel in 2024, according to experts. “Mortgage rates should trend lower throughout the year as inflation pressures ease…,” Greg McBride, CFA, chief financial analyst for Bankrate, said. 

 

Unfortunately, the number of available homes is still low, and home prices are not expected to drop in 2024. Lawrence Yun, the chief economist with the National Association of Realtors, said there’s only a 3.2-month supply of homes on the market, whereas a balanced market has enough homes for a five to six-month supply. However, other experts disagree and predict home inventory will increase in 2024, so be patient and keep your ear to the ground!

 

Home Buyer Strategies

 

Even though it’s a tough market for homebuyers in 2024, all hope is not lost. Some good strategies can still help a savvy homebuyer find their dream home in 2024. 

 

  • Keep an eye on interest rates. They’ve been declining since October and are expected to continue a trend downward. 

 

  • Consider virtual tours. If you’re open to a virtual tour, this could buy you some time to make a fast offer rather than waiting to see a home in person.

 

  • Shop in the winter or fall months. Spring and summer tend to have more inventory, but fall and winter months tend to have fewer bidders and potentially lowered sales prices. 

 

Important Considerations

 

There are some things – like buying in a good location – that will always be a smart move, no matter the market trends. Before you go about picking out new furniture and interior paint colors, consider these important factors. 

 

Affordability. How much house you can afford is a paramount question. A safe rule of thumb is a monthly mortgage payment that’s no more than 25% of your take-home income. 

 

Home buyers should also factor in the cost of utilities in the area, as well as any HOA fees, needed home repairs, and general maintenance. 

 

Consider the neighborhood and school district. A safe neighborhood with good schools is a significant factor that not only impacts the price you’ll pay for a home but your home’s value when it comes time to sell as well. 

 

Crosswinds Benefits

 

With low inventory frustrating many potential home buyers, experts are highlighting the benefits of buying a new home. “With the crazy lack of inventory still causing headaches in the market, building a home becomes an attractive option, and with spec homes and semi-custom-building options,” Nick Bailey, president of RE/MAX, said

 

Crosswinds offers a range of both completed and soon-to-be-completed new homes by some of the best builders in the country, many with customizable home options. 

 

Not only are the homes in the Crosswinds built with the latest designs in home construction innovation, but residents can enjoy resort-like amenities, and the community feeds into a great school district

If you’re ready to find your perfect home in 2024, reach out today to learn more about the amazing master-planned Crosswinds community.

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Area Attractions Blog Education Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Educational Excellence in Kyle, Texas

Access to good schools and a well-rounded education is always top-of-mind for parents when choosing where to live. The Crosswinds community is fortunate to be located within the Hays CISD, allowing children from kindergarten up through high school the chance for an education that will set them up for a lifetime of success. 

 

About Hays CISD

 

The Hays Consolidated Independent School District’s motto is “changing lives, one student at a time” and that certainly rings true across its 26 campuses that educate over 23,000 students. 

 

As the population of Hays County has increased, so has the school district’s dedication to providing a quality education for students – tripling the number of schools since 2000. Today, this encompasses three high schools, six middle schools, and 15 elementary schools. The school district also includes a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center.

 

Students who live in the Crosswinds community attend Pfluger Elementary, Chapa Middle School, and Lehman High School

 

Pfluger Elementary

 

Named after Mr. Ralph Pfluger, one of the founding school board members of Hays CISD, the elementary school is dedicated to setting an educational foundation for its students. Serving K-5th grade, the school accomplishes this goal for its falcons (the school mascot) through a curriculum that helps students S.O.A.R. This includes the development of skills in self-control, optimism, acceptance, and resiliency.

 

If you’ve already had a child go through Pfluger Elementary School, then you know how excellent the teachers are at ensuring each child is set on the path to success. 

 

Chapa Middle

 

Serving 670 students in 6th through 8th grade, Chapa Cougars have the opportunity to develop and succeed in an environment that prides itself on robust academic programs that nurture independent learners and thinkers. 

 

In addition to an academic curriculum, students can also participate in a variety of engaging athletics programs such as basketball, cross-country, football, soccer, volleyball, and track. Through both academics and extracurricular activities, Chapa Middle aspires to help students continue upward social and educational growth. 

 

Lehman High School

 

Home of the Lobos, Lehman High School serves around over 2,000 students in grades 9 through 12, providing them with a dynamic community and the goal of fostering lifelong achievement. The school not only offers a rigorous general curriculum that helps to set students up for the jobs of tomorrow but also offers award-winning music, theater, and Navy JROTC programs. 

 

The school also provides students with a versatile athletic program that includes everything from baseball, basketball, soccer, and football to water polo, wrestling, tennis, and volleyball, among other sports.  

If you’d like to learn more about our community, nearby secondary educational opportunities, and our new homes in Kyle, contact Crosswinds today.

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Guide to Outdoor Recreation: Kyle, Texas

It may still be the dead of winter and pretty chilly out, but that doesn’t mean you have to be stuck inside all the time, particularly on those days when the sun does decide to show itself. 

 

If you want to enjoy a little more outdoor recreation in 2024, here are a few places around Kyle to start. 

 

Plum Creek Trail: One of the best ways to explore Kyle and enjoy nature is on the Plum Creek Trail. Lace up your sneakers and grab your bike if you prefer because this trail covers 7 miles and connects Lake Kyle, Cool Springs, Waterleaf, and Steeplechase. Stretching from the City of Uhland (on the east) to the Blanco River (on the west), the trail is an ideal way to get some exercise and be immersed in the natural beauty surrounding Plum Creek. 

 

Lake Kyle: The park is open from sunrise to sunset seven days a week and is a popular spot for birding and area anglers. While the lake is a catch-and-release-only site for fishing, don’t make the mistake of thinking that the fish in the lake aren’t worth casting a line. As the photos on the lake’s bragging board show, some real monsters are swimming in its waters. 

 

Currently, it’s being restocked with bluegill sunfish, red ear sunfish, catfish, and largemouth bass for the spring season.

 

Steeplechase Dog Park: If your pup is tired of being cooped up inside all winter, then grab the leash and head down to the city’s dog park at 135 Hallie Drive. The park opened in 2018 and has become quite the place to wag about among the city’s four-legged residents. 

 

The park is divided into two sections: a small dog area for dogs under 25 pounds and a large dog area for dogs weighing 25 pounds or more. Owners and their pets can enjoy it from dawn to dusk, and good behavior among dogs and humans is expected at all times. For a full list of dog park rules, please visit the parks’ webpage

 

Gregg-Clarke Park, the Sports Complex: You might just call Gregg-Clarke Park the heart of the city’s sports scene. With several multiuse fields and plenty of parking, the city’s sports complex offers a wide variety of sporting options, including football, soccer, baseball, softball, kickball, jogging, walking, ultimate frisbee, kite flying, tennis, basketball, washers, horseshoes. And while it’s too cold out now, swing by on Memorial Day weekend when the park’s pool opens for the summer. 

 

The park also offers a pedestrian bridge that allows for easy access to the playground, picnic tables, and grills for cooking out. In the warmer months, you may even be able to catch an outdoor movie on one of the park’s screens on select nights. 

 

While Kyle has no shortage of outdoor recreation options, one of the things that makes Crosswinds such an appealing place to call home is the range of outdoor amenities located within the community. From walking the trail system to playing a few games of basketball or pickleball to grilling out or taking a dip in the pool in the summer, residents don’t have to venture far for outdoor fun. 

If you’d like to learn more about Crosswinds, contact us today.

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Area Attractions Blog Events Kyle Texas

Upcoming 2024 Events in Kyle, Texas

The year has just started but already there’s a lot happening in Kyle. From winter through the spring and into summer and fall, there are plenty of fun events for families going on throughout the year. 

Valentine’s Day Dance for People with Disabilities – This special dance party for guests with physical disabilities is going down February 9 from 5:30 – 8 PM at the Gemstone Palace on Bunton Creek Road. The Valentine’s Day-themed dance party will have a DJ, giveaway prizes, snacks, games, photo opportunities, and lots more! Admission is free, but you do need to make a reservation. 

Easter at the Train Depot: Hop on by the historic Kyle Train Depot over Easter weekend for this special community event. Starting on Saturday, March 30, at around 10 AM, families can come by for photos with the Easter bunny, cookies, and lemonade. This event is completely free and is sure to be a fun way to celebrate the holiday. 

Kyle Market Days – This ongoing farmers’ market/craft fair is one of our favorite recurring events throughout the year. Beginning the second week of April and running through early November, the community is invited to gather at Mary Kyle Hartson Park from 9 – 2 to enjoy live music, fresh produce, and baked goods, as well as handmade arts and crafts. 

Kyle Fair aTex-Travaganza – There’s no better way to welcome the end of the school year and kick off summer than a day at the fair. Head down to Lake Kyle the weekend of May 17-19 for rides, live music, games, and every kind of carnival food imaginable. It’s also the only fair we know of that aims to bring together people with the name Kyle for a celebration of Kyle!

Independence Day Celebration – Come out and celebrate our nation’s birthday with this community fireworks celebration sponsored by the City of Kyle. While this year’s event hasn’t been fully planned out, last year’s event featured the well-known Austin cover band, The Grooves putting on a free concert prior to the 9:30 PM fireworks show. The event is always free to attend, and there are plenty of visible spots to watch the show around downtown Kyle. 

Kyle Pie in the Sky Festival – Perhaps Kyle’s most well-known event is this annual hot air balloon festival. This year’s event will take place August 30-31 and feature over a dozen vibrantly colored hot air balloons. In addition to hot air balloon rides, there will be live music lineup, pie baking and eating contests, and plenty of other food to satisfy your appetite. 

Founders’ Day Parade – Everyone is welcome to come out the second weekend in October to share in the town’s birthday celebration at the annual Founders’ Parade. Kyle’s founding dates all the way back to 1880, and this family-friendly event will kick off the parade around noon before concluding with a small celebration at Mary Kyle Hartson Park during Kyle Market Days. 

Daily Events – While the above events are some of the bigger events happening in our community, there are plenty of smaller events you can attend every day. From bird walks to yoga, movie nights, and city board meetings, your best way to stay up-to-date with what’s going on in Kyle is to check out the City Calendar

Needless to say, there’s a lot to love about living in Kyle. If you’d like to find your dream home here, reach out to us to learn more about the Crosswinds master-planned community.

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas

Parent’s Night Out: Breweries + Hangout Spots

It’s no surprise that Kyle was named one of the best cities in Hays County to raise a family in 2023. The city has excellent schools and plenty of ways for families to have fun. 

 

As enjoyable as family outings can be, sometimes parents need to cut loose – without the kids. Whether you’re looking for a date night with your spouse or you’re a single parent simply looking to meet new people, Kyle has several spots for a parent’s night out. 

 

The Railhouse – You’d be hard-pressed to find a better local venue that promises good food, cold drinks, and a full live music calendar. The Railhouse reopened in 2021 under new ownership, and since then, it has established itself as one of the city’s most popular entertainment destinations, with something going on 7-nights a week. Many days offer both evening and matinee shows, so even if your babysitter can’t stay late, parents can still enjoy some live tunes. 

 

Centerfield Sports Bar – There are lots of places to watch the big game in Kyle, but if you’re looking for a bar with “TVs in every direction” and an almost never-ending list of draft beers, Centerfield Sports Bar is a top pick. Don’t make the mistake of thinking Certerfield is only a hangout spot for game day, though. The venue has regular karaoke and DJ nights for patrons looking to bust a move on the dance floor. 

 

Wicked Wings – Not only does this local wing joint offer some killer wings with spice levels ranging from mild to “wicked hot,” but the rest of its menu selection is sure to hit the spot for a casual date night. The restaurant offers a full bar and food menu, including pizzas, salads, burgers, and sandwiches. And after you’ve enjoyed some grub, hit the dance floor or step up to the mic for karaoke. 

 

Glenn’s Bar and Grill – This local spot is found on the Plum Creek golf course, but even if you don’t know the difference between a nine iron and a driver, it’s still worth checking out. The restaurant and bar underwent a complete renovation several years ago and has since become one of the best lunch spots in town. It’s also a great spot to hit up after work for a happy hour drink on the patio or on the weekend to enjoy the big game on the bar’s 100” projector. 

 

Aviator Pizza & Drafthouse – Sometimes parents want a night out with the kids that is a bit on the more low-key side. If that’s the case, then chill and casual is just what you’ll find at Aviator Pizza. The restaurant has several locations and offers a wide range of specialty pizzas that are sure to be a hit with any parents out there who can’t remember the last time they had a pizza that didn’t come from Chuck E. Cheese. 

These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Kyle that are worth stopping by for a drink or bite to eat. If you’d like to learn more about Kyle and find a home in the Crosswinds community, contact us today.

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Amenities Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Navigating the Neighborhood

Maybe we’re a bit biased, but we strongly believe that Kyle, specifically the Crosswinds community, is the best place to call home in the Texas Hill Country. The city offers convenience to larger metros such as Austin and San Antonio but has a vibrant character all its own. It’s big enough that there’s always something going on, yet small enough that it isn’t tangled up in the hustle and bustle of a big city.

 

If you’re new to the neighborhood, here are a few things to know for navigating your new home turf. 

 

Amenities Overview

 

The Crosswinds master-planned community was designed to offer residents not only exceptional homes but resort-style amenities that appeal to every lifestyle. 

 

Residents can soak up the sun and cool off poolside during the summer months, burn off some energy on the pickleball court, or gather for a cookout at one of the grill/picnic areas. There’s also a dog park for pet owners and an extensive trail system that residents can enjoy for biking or just a leisurely stroll. 

 

Schools

 

Children in the Crosswinds community and Kyle are zoned for Hays CISD. From elementary all the way up through high school, the schools offer an amazing curriculum of educational and extra-curricular activities ranging from sports to music and theater.

 

Located within the Hays CISD for Crosswinds families are:

  • Plfuger Elementary – student/teacher ratio 15:1
  • Chapa Middle School – student/teacher ratio 13:1
  • Lehman High School – student/teacher ratio 16:1

 

Kyle also happens to be near several community and four-year colleges and universities, including: 

  • Austin Community College (ACC) Hays Campus
  • Texas State University
  • UT at Austin
  • St. Edwards University
  • San Antonio College
  • Huston-Tillotson University

 

Access to Austin

 

A major draw for many people moving to Kyle is its close proximity to Austin. Considering that it’s just 21 miles to downtown Austin, 25 miles to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and an hour to San Antonio, Kyle is an ideal spot for those looking for the convenience of a larger city without the busyness of living in one.

 

Kyle at a Glance

 

Kyle may be one of the most popular spots to call home in Austin, but this small Texas city has a long history stretching back to the 19th century. 

 

The area was settled in 1880, but it wasn’t until 1960 that its population cracked 1,000 people. Even then, Kyle was still a pretty sleepy town until the new millennium, when its population really began to grow between 2000 and 2010. 

 

Today, Kyle enjoys a growing economy, affordable cost of living, low crime rate, and plenty of leisure and shopping options. Walking trails like the Plum Creek Trail system offer residents an ideal way to enjoy nature, and the Pie In The Sky Hot Air Balloon Festival draws thousands of people each year. 

It’s this combination of convenience, affordability, and lifestyle that makes Crosswinds such an appealing place to call home. If you’re interested in all that Crosswinds has to offer and want to learn more about moving to Kyle and our available inventory of homes, reach out to us today.

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas Tips

Tech-Free Family Time: Unplugged Activities for Quality Bonding

Technology has worked its way into nearly every facet of our lives, from careers to school and entertainment. Too much screen time, however, can lead to a disconnect among family members.

 

Thankfully, regularly unplugging to spend time together can help to strengthen family bonds. Here are a few wi-fi-free ways your family can engage in quality bonding. 

 

Family Game Night

 

Families have been bonding over board games for literally thousands of years. What board games may lack in streaming capability, they can often make up for in challenge and, in some cases, a lot of hilarity. 

 

Board games like Monopoly, Life, Clue, and Trivial Pursuit are always going to be classics, but there are dozens of other board games worth checking out. Ticket to Ride, Hues and Cues, Kids vs. Parents, and Headbanz are all popular board games worth adding to your personal collection. 

 

Give Back

 

Volunteering doesn’t just help the communities we live in; it helps us as individuals learn to be more empathetic and can benefit our mental health. And because children are constantly watching their parents, volunteering as a family sets a positive example.

 

When you take time to volunteer with your kids, you’re showing them firsthand the importance of being a good citizen and helping to mold them into a well-rounded person. From helping out at the animal shelter to sorting groceries at the food bank, there are a number of ways to give back in the Kyle area.  

 

Cook and Eat Meals Together

 

With life seemingly getting busier and busier every year, making time to eat a meal together on a regular basis can be difficult. However, doing so has major benefits in both the short and long term. For starters, it gives family members a chance to reconnect at the end of the day and just talk. In fact, “80% of teenagers say that family dinner is the time of the day they’re most likely to talk to their parents,” according to a Harvard study

 

Why not take things a step further? Break out a cookbook and include the entire family in preparing the meal, assigning each family member a task. Research shows that families who regularly eat dinner together are at lower risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and teen pregnancy. 

 

Head Outside

 

We’re lucky enough to live in one of the most beautiful areas of the country, and there are nearly endless ways to enjoy it. 

 

Kyle has several parks within a 15-minute drive that are ideal for hiking, tossing the frisbee, or viewing wildlife. And in warmer months, setting out to explore a natural swimming hole is going to beat staying inside and playing video games hands down every time. 

 

Maybe you’re looking for something even more adventurous? Texas Trail Rides offers group horse rides, and the City of Kyle website has a bike map for families looking to keep things on two wheels rather than four legs. 

Even something as simple as taking a family walk around one of the trails within the Crosswinds community can be beneficial. To learn more about Crosswinds, contact us today.