Family Fun
The Family That Plays Together...
Posted on January 23rd, 2012
Modern families spend most of the time running to their individual events: school, work, sports practice, the gym, coming together -- maybe -- for a nightly meal and a quick chitchat. This year, make a commitment to spend genuine quality time with those closest to you.
Sure, a movie night is fun, but staring at a screen together doesn't encourage conversation and laughter. Instead, dedicate one night a week to family game night. Here are some quick and easy ways to play together:
Anything but Board
Show the kids how people played before XBox and iPads hit the scene. Break out some old school board games that encourage family fun. Think Monopoly, Clue and Pictionary. Can't find the games in the back of the closet? Make a field trip to a local toy store or hop online.
A Deck Will Do It
Cards are a simple -- and highly transportable -- gateway to family fun. Throw a deck in your suitcase before heading out on a family vacation and keep one in the living room for easy entertainment. Little kids can play Go Fish, Old Maid and War, while older kids can get in on more complicated group games like Hearts and Spades. Check online for directions.
Everyone Loves Charades
Whether you're a family of thespians or you tend to more introverted pursuits, Charades is always good for a giggle. Have everyone write five names -- famous folks are good for the older crowd, while kids may fare better with a game based on basic nouns like "bunny" or "chair" or "tree" -- on folded pieces of paper, drop into a bowl, split into teams and start acting!
