5 Quick Tips for a More Fun (& Frequent) Family Night

Author: Jennifer Kropf

These days, families are spending a measly 4 hours together a week - with over half of parents wishing they had more family time. (studyfinds)

On top of this, many are struggling to make that time meaningful despite the constant allure of devices. I Know in my house, between phones, computers, and ipads, we have six different ways to get on screens. Yikes!

So, what can you do about this? Incorporate the FAST FIVE this week!

1.Schedule In Quality Time

What gets scheduled, gets DONE.

So, first, mark your next family time on your calendar. And make it a non-negotiable for the week. (Even if you need to move it around later)

2. Make it a No Screen Zone

Aside from things you plan for (family movies & games), screens will only take away from getting to know and enjoy your loves. So, put your phones in the cabinet and the rest of your devices out of the room during your scheduled time.

3. Pre-Decide

Take the effort out of figuring out what to do by having one or two ideas ready.

These great at home activities for kids can give you lots of fun ideas! Here are just a few:

  • Play I Spy
  • Bake Something
  • Make an Indoor Fort
  • Do a Simple Scavenger Hunt
  • Paint Rocks
  • Make an Obstacle Course
  • Watch a New Movie
  • Play a Game
  • Do a Puzzle
  • Take a Walk
  • Create a Family Dream Board
  • Play the Lava Game

You don’t even have to choose one of the activities above. A good family dinner and walk are great low-key connectors when you're scrambling.

4. Change Your Mental Game

Look, I understand. You have a million things to do and never enough time to do it. I can have a hard time disconnecting from responsibilities too.

But make an effort to shift your mindset and be truly present. Because your kids won't be around forever, and your time to create deep relationships and unforgettable memories is quite limited.

5. Enjoy Food Together

Good food brings people together. So roast that chicken, pick up a pizza, or just grab a fun snack you know everyone will love (and look forward to).

Here are easy healthy snacks to try that are also fun:

  • Popcorn
  • Sliced Fruit with peanut butter dip
  • Trail Mix
  • Beef Jerky
  • Apple Chips
  • Ants on a Log
  • Sweet Potato Fries
  • Veggies and Hummus
  • Oatmeal Balls
  • String Cheese

In Conclusion

Often, we think it’s the big vacations and the expensive family outings that matter. And sure, they are a lot of fun and have their own value.

But at the end of the day, it’s what you do every week and every month that really matters.

Put these five things together and you’ll have a regular family night that encourages connection, smiles, and the funniest moments you’ll remember in ten years.