9 Ways to Unplug and Spend Time as a Family
I try and get in as much family time as possible, especially now that my kids are getting older. The realization that they will be out of the house quicker than I’m ready for is something that weighs on my mind. During what was supposed to be movie night was a real eye-opener for me. After getting up to get a glass of water, I looked around at everyone, and not one person’s eyes were on the TV. They were all glued to their electronic devices.
Yep, our quality family time of movie watching turned into just sitting next to one another, but not really enjoying the time we were spending with one another. Whether it was on social media or playing a video game, that family time was being taken from us without us even realizing it. Something needed to change. I didn’t want to look back on my kids’ youth and realize we wasted so many precious moments. We decided then, as a family, that we would start making our moments together count. To go back to those uninterrupted moments of laughing together and growing our family bond. Doing things that one day we can tell our future children and grandchildren about.
So how do you unplug? There are so many ways, many that don’t cost money. It may annoy the kids (after all, isn’t that our job? Ha), but I promise they will appreciate it!
Here are 9 ways your family can unplug.
Go, Bowling – When was the last time your family took a trip to the bowling alley? This is a place that kids and adults of any age can really enjoy! Between bumpers, ramps, and different weights of the bowling balls, all you’ll need to focus on is getting in those strikes!
Play Mini Golf – Mini golf is one of those games that keep you entertained the whole way through. Let the kids keep score and even place a little bet. Whoever wins, gets to choose the next outing as a family.
Cook Together as a Family – How many times have you cooked together as a family? Whether it be something simple like breakfast or a little more complicated like dinner, nothing says family like gathering around in the kitchen. Plus, having your kids there to help create the meal is almost a sure way to get them to actually eat it.
Go Back To Board Games – Ah, I loved playing board games with my parents as a kid. When was the last time you dusted off one of those games and gathered around the table? There are so many fun games out there nowadays, find one you all love and enjoy a few hours playing.
Get Out and Venture Around – If the weather is nice, take the family out on a bike ride, walk, hike, or kayak trip (depending on where you live). Exploring the nature that surrounds you is sure to pack on those memories and make for wonderful photo ops!
Go On a Camping Trip (indoors or outdoors) – Obviously, depending on the weather will determine how you camp. It doesn’t need to cost a lot of money and if you aren’t that into sleeping out in nature, set up a tent inside, keep electronics off, turn on a lantern and read stories to one another. This is also a great time to tell family stories from when you were a kid. Keep those stories alive!
Volunteer – A family that volunteers together, stays together. Ok, I just made that up… but what a great way to give back and teach your children about appreciation and responsibility. Here’s a great site to check out what places need help near you.
Take An Art Class – So many art classes and pottery classes are popping up all over. You don’t need a wine night to enjoy those either. Check with the schedule at your local places and book a fun class for the whole family to enjoy.
Start a Garden – Whether you have a huge spot on your yard for a garden or you just want to get a few pots to grow a few herbs, gardening is always rewarding when you get to eat the fruits and veggies you grew. Check out this DIY patio herb garden!
Need some more fun ideas? Check out these 10 activities!
What are some of your favorite ways to unplug as a family?
