Family Time

Warm Days

For us, there is nothing better than being outdoors. Some of the ways we connect as a family is by camping, going on nature hikes, or even simply taking a stroll around the neighborhood. In the colder months, we can be found doing the usual things like sledding, ice skating, and dressing up a snowman. My brother is well into his 40s and yet, he is still, without a doubt, the BEST snow fort maker. Those are the memories his children will cherish for years to come.

Cold Nights

In our household, the best evenings are the ones where we all disconnect from electronics and reconnect with each other. These are the nights the cards, board games, crafts, and laughter come out to play.

One game we grew up playing and still thoroughly enjoy as adults is Rummy 500. All you need is a deck of cards. A good poker face may come in handy, too.
Flip 7 is a new family favorite. The gameplay is simple enough. Pick a card off the top of the deck and try not to get any duplicates. But alas, you will need some strategy if you hope to win this game.
When was the last time you played a game of Scrabble? This is a wonderful game that can help younger generations with spelling in addition to being fun. I call that a Win-Win.
Sometimes, we just bust out with the old, reliable coloring pencils, crayons, markers and books. This is another great way to be together as a family and create a space for some good conversations.

Anytime! Anywhere! Everywhere!

Cooking & Baking

It is never too early to start teaching your children their way around the kitchen. Cooking and baking together is a great way to both learn new skills and spend quality time together. Plus the bonus of enjoying tasty food! When you first embark on kitchen time together, be sure to find recipes that aren't too complicated or pick ones you are familiar with such as tossing a salad, making grilled cheese, heating up soup. As the whole family becomes more comfortable in the kitchen you can slowly progress to more difficult entrees and eventually, introduce them to some traditional, hand-me-down family recipes if you have any of those gems laying around.

Artwork & Creativity

Find a local organization that offers kid friendly paint nights. If there are none in your area, consider starting one. Or, plan a night to invite a couple friends into your home and get creative with crafts or other art projects. Allow everyone to find their own unique spark of imagination and give them the space to express themselves. I am certain it will be a truly memorable experience.

Nature Exploration

There are literally countless experiences to be had outside! Just to name a few:

Plan a beach day
Go rock climbing
Try cave diving (with trained professionals)
Enjoy a hike in the woods
Start a game of kickball in the backyard
Swing by the local park for a picnic lunch and a game of frisbee or tag
Hit up a nearby public pool or waterpark
Roller-skate (or ice-skate, depending on the season)
Go for a bike ride
Check out local botanical gardens
Try canoeing or kayaking, maybe even white water rafting (with trained professionals)
GO EXPLORING!

All Things Indoors

For indoor fun:

Walk the mall. See who can buy the most unique item with only a $10 budget
Go bowling
Plan a family night of a special dinner and a new movie
Enjoy the museum
Ask Google for unique things to do in your area
Purchase a new board or card game, something your family has never played
Build a fortress using big boxes or sheets and furniture, then "camp out" in the living room overnight together