When you’re up against gadgets and social media for the attention of your children, it could seem impossible to spend more time with them while they’re still young. But you don’t really need to book a trip out of town or go someplace to bond with them. Simple creativity does it.
Here are some ideas for family bonding activities that teach valuable lessons and create meaningful memories:
Capture moments with a camera
Set a photo shoot as a family either on a specific time of the year (like birthdays or anniversaries) or a location (like a summer vacation house) to create a tradition. Print out your favorite shots and create photo collages or scrapbooks together. You can also capture special occasions on video, such as first days of school and family reunions. Watching these home videos in the future can bring back memories and that warm feeling of home and family.
Play games together
Play age-appropriate board games and/or card games together. Although gadgets are more easily accessible nowadays, the classic games you played as children will not only stimulate the mind, but will also teach children concepts like taking turns, winning and losing, and being a team player.
Play a sport or exercise
Staying active as a family is beneficial because not only does it promote healthier habits, it also allows members of the family to bond together in a fun environment. Try different group sports you can do together, such as badminton, basketball, volleyball, or football. If your schedule does not give you the chance to go outdoors, have a “sports tournament” indoors via a video game, such as Wii Sports or Just Dance. The important thing is that it gets everyone up and moving.
Do household chores
There is a never-ending list of things to do at home. Get the family to help out by turning chore sessions into a game, such as a race to tidy up a room, put away laundry, bathe the pets, or water the garden. Doing chores teaches children a sense of responsibility and life skills they’ll need when they grow up. The feeling of accomplishment where everyone is doing their part certainly makes mundane chores less tiring.
Cook and eat together
Meal times are so important since they bring the family together around one table. Why not make meal preparation a bonding activity as well? You can prepare quick yet healthy dishes together using pantry staples like Gold Seas Tuna. This premium tuna is available in exciting gourmet flavors that your family will love. Whether it’s making a favorite dish or experimenting with a new recipe—let everyone pitch in, even the little ones. Sitting down to eat what everyone’s had a hand preparing will certainly make the meal more special.