I'm not sure if this is what you were asking or not, but I have always like the idea of getting out of the house and exploring a lot of different places, but trying to do it in a relaxed way when we are there. So, for instance, a trip to the zoo but with no particular agenda; a trip to the science center that includes the omnimax movie or the special exhibit but then no other agenda; a trip to the children's museum where they get to try out whatever they want and either run from activity to activity or just linger at one or two. We also like activities like hiking, walking, biking, playing in the snow, playing in the sand, etc., with no time table or goals when possible. My kids love to play outside endlessly. Swimming and gymnastics are fun, as are other sports as long as they aren't too competitive. So, basically, anything that seems fun. I always have liked to have some structure to our days, but with a lot of flexibility within the structure. KWIM? And, if you follow the kids' leads, you can't go wrong. BTW: there are times when it is good to have an agenda, like when you want to investigate a particular topic that you're interested in.
If you're asking about setting up the house, I have to admit we have a LOT of stuff: puzzles, marble mazes, building materials of all sorts, tons of recylables to create with, art supplies, baking materials, a million books in places throughout the house, some computer games, balls, bikes, scooters, board games, card games, etc. I do try to have a place for everything and try to keep the house relatively orderly, but sometimes they like to play with three things at once or we have to leave or go to sleep in the middle of something and I'm okay with temporary mess as well. I encourage the kids to pick up, and require it on occasion, but I'm not a fanatic and there is a difference between what is messy for an adult and what is messy for kids. Still, it's important for kids to learn to take responsibility both for their things and for the house.
Sleep is hugely important, I think, in creating a "good" environment at home. I'm a big believer in a regular, predictable bedtime with a predictable routine to go with it.
Of course, as the kids get older and get involved in more outside activities your schedule gets crazier, but if you can somehow manage to stick to as many of your eating, sleeping, and family time routines, I think that helps.
Is this what you were asking?
