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Family Activities

Learn about activities offered for families and how to get involved.

Fun and Relaxation

At Ronald McDonald House Central Ohio, we offer a variety of weekly and monthly activities designed to bring joy, comfort, and connection to families staying with us. These volunteer-led experiences create moments of fun and relaxation during what can be a challenging time. 
Scroll below to learn more about our regularly scheduled family activities.

Arts & Crafts

BESA • offers creative monthly craft nights, and help host special events like Trick-or-Treat and the New Year’s Eve Party
Crafts with Carol • Themed craft activities! These laid-back lunchtime sessions are perfect for families of all ages.
Crafts with Cheryl • Cheryl hosts fun evenings of arts and crafts in a casual and welcoming atmosphere
Fun with Fran • Fran leads banner-making craft nights full of creativity and color.
Project Sunshine OSU • Students from The Ohio State University come in weekly during the school year
Quilts by Molly • Thanks to grant funding, Molly helps families turn children’s artwork into keepsake quilts, free of charge

Music & Entertainment

Steve and Dick • Known as BoxRobot and the Leftover Nut visit the House to play acoustic guitar and sing for families, offering peaceful, live entertainment
Good Medicine Productions • With a “wacky and silly” style, these costumed volunteers interact with families through music, comedy, and playful improvisation—lifting spirits and sparking laughter whenever they arrive
Magical Adventure Parties • This group brings favorite characters like princesses, superheroes, and even the Grinch to interact with kids at the House
NACHO • Originally formed by Nationwide Children's Hospital staff, the band hosts open rehearsals and live performances in the dining area

Wellness Activities

The Blowout Bar • Stylists offer free hairstyling for women. Appointments are one hour, with standby options available
Haircuts by Brittany • Free haircuts are offered to families in the Spa Room
Sunny • Sunny offers complimentary manicures or pedicures
Reflexology by Robert • Enjoy a therapeutic technique applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears
Yoga with Colleen • A relaxing, beginner-friendly yoga session led in the Zoo Playroom. Mats are provided

Interested in Volunteering?

Donate your time and talents to our families in need!

Please reach out to Megan Renner at megan.renner@rmhcentralohio.org to schedule your family activity.

Options and Ideas for Volunteer Groups

Board Game Activity

Bring your favorite board games and engage with families in a fun and interactive way. Set up the games, invite families to join, and create lasting memories as you share laughs and friendly competition. This is a wonderful opportunity to foster connections and bring joy through playful interaction

Coloring Activity

Unleash your creativity by bringing in coloring sheets or books, along with crayons or colored pencils. Spend time coloring alongside families, encouraging artistic expression and relaxation. This activity not only provides a soothing pastime but also opens up conversations, allowing for meaningful connections to blossom.

Hot Chocolate Bar

Delight families with a cozy hot chocolate experience! We’ll provide a carafe of hot water; however, we kindly ask that you bring cups, hot chocolate mix, spoons, and any delightful mix-ins like marshmallows, whipped cream, or flavored syrups. This sweet treat is perfect for warming hearts and creating a cozy atmosphere for socializing.

Ice Cream Social

What could be better than ice cream? To host this delightful event, you’ll need to supply bowls, spoons, ice cream, an ice cream scoop, and an assortment of toppings to create the ultimate sundae experience. Invite families to explore their creativity as they craft their dream ice cream creations while enjoying each other’s company.

Root Beer Floats

Bring a refreshing twist to your gathering with root beer floats! We ask that you supply the ice cream, root beer, spoons, cups, and straws. This nostalgic treat is sure to bring smiles and spark conversations as families enjoy a classic favorite together.

Cookie Decorating

Get ready for a sweet and artistic adventure! You’ll need to bring premade cookies, icing, and some spreading utensils (like plastic knives) along with a variety of toppings. Families can unleash their creativity as they decorate cookies, making this a deliciously fun way to bond and share their creations.

Craft Activity

Share your artistic flair by leading a craft activity! You’ll come up with a fun craft idea and provide all the necessary materials for families to create their own masterpieces. This hands-on experience not only fosters creativity but also encourages teamwork and connection among participants.

Item Giveaway

Spread joy by bringing a special item to share with families! Whether it’s toys, books, or other thoughtful gifts, your gesture will be appreciated. Take the time to interact and chat with families as you hand out items, fostering a sense of community and support during their stay.
Important Note: For these volunteer opportunities, a maximum of 10 volunteers is permitted. While you are welcome to participate in multiple activities listed below, the total number of volunteers cannot exceed 10.

Requirements for all Activities:

  • All materials needed to host the activity must be provided by the volunteer.
  • Your group must supply latex free gloves for all food related activities.
  • Supplies should be sufficient for at least 30 participants.
  • All activities will take place in the kitchen and dining room areas.
  • For the comfort and safety of our families, glitter and confetti are not permitted during activities.
  • Please ensure your group cleans up all supplies after your activity and either takes them with you or drops them off at the front desk for donation.

Family Activity Calendar

If you are interested in hosting a family activity, please look for the placeholders that say “OPEN” in the calendar below.  Activities are hosted around mealtimes, which is usually when most families are at the House.

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