It’s so easy to get caught up in the routine of life that we miss having fun together as a family. Between the morning routine before school, work, homework, carpools, after school activities, etc – our daily schedules are jam-packed and exhausting for everyone. We’re here to help you rediscover some good ol’ fashioned family time with some fun activities that everyone will enjoy — and the best part? Minimal planning required! Here you go:
Movie Night
Nothing but a DVD player (or Netflix, etc.) and a cozy couch needed for this one! We’ve had fun introducing the classics from our childhoods to our children (E.T., Star Wars, The Parent Trap) but we also love this list of family-friendly movies from Time Out Magazine. Order a pizza and call it a day, but if you add popcorn, check out some of these creative popcorn recipes from Real Simple. Yum!
Outdoor Picnic
Grab a blanket, a few sandwiches or takeout from your favorite restaurant and “cop a squat” in your back yard or local park. Just changing up your routine ever so slightly can be a refreshing change of pace for everyone. Save time for a quick game of tag or frisbee!
Museum Day
While museums with children can seem an unlikely combination, many museums actually have special family-friendly programs that introduce art to children while allowing parents to enjoy themselves as well. In New York City, for example, The Whitney Museum offers monthly Stroller Tours. Check your local museums and see if there’s a fit!
Backyard Camp Out
Camping is one of those quintessential family activities that everyone has to experience at least once. Gather your sleeping bags, a tent, supplies and head outdoors for an adventure. Perhaps you’ll see a shooting star, but s’mores should be a definite. And hey, in case you have to bail in the middle of the night, you’re not far from home! We love these ideas from Parents Magazine!