Every family deserves a super-fun night. However, the stresses of life mean that you are often limited to options like ordering a pizza and falling asleep while attempting to watch a movie. While there is nothing wrong with a chill night, there are many other options to have fun with your loved ones. Here are a few simple and fun family night ideas.
1. Game Night
This is a classic. With game options like cards, board games, and trivia, you and your family can have an amazing night. Make it even more interesting by including your favorite foods and snacks into the night. A little ‘gaming convention’ in your living room is a fun way to pass the night. Mix classic games with newer games that you rarely play. Make it even more fun by setting out a blanket on the floor and holding an indoor picnic. If the weather allows it, you can set everything out on the patio or porch. The picnic will be great when you need to take a break from the games.
While family game night has a competitive element, it should be equally fun. Take turns choosing games and ensure that the kids do not feel excluded. Keep the mood light and check a few times to ensure that everyone is having fun.
2. Camping Out
Setup your tent in the backyard or living room and take a break from your screens. It is an amazing opportunity to bond with your loved ones. Even though you may not have the full camping experience, you can try. Read books, sing your favorite songs, roast marshmallows, and tell scary stories. Complete your night of ‘camping’ with sleeping bags, jammies, blankets, and comfy pillows. Take out your dobsonian telescope and have fun exploring the outdoors with your kids. They are great for views of the deep skies.
This idea may get kids to adopt a habit of reading. Older kids may improve their skills by reading to their siblings. When they are younger, they may be happy to read to the parents, pets, or stuffed animals.
3. Cook a Meal Together
Nothing brings a family together better than a delicious meal. Preparing and cooking it together makes things even more interesting. There are lots of ways to turn meal time into a family event. The simplest one is choosing a menu together. Once you have a few options, go grocery shopping together, prepare, and cook together. Have fun with your food choices and pick meals that you don’t cook often.
Another option is holding food contests among members of the family. The parents and younger kids can compete against the older ones. There may be prizes for the winners. Alternatively, you can assign different courses to different people. One person can be in charge of the main course while another one is in charge of dessert, the side dish, or the appetizer. In the end, you may have a full meal made by every member of the family. Be open to suggestions that could make your event more fun.
4. Arts and Crafts
There is no better way to beat boredom than with a good art project. There is a lot of satisfaction in creating something with your own hands. It builds your kid’s confidence and encourages them to explore their creative side.
Consider turning your home into an art studio. You can use any part of your home for this idea. All you need is some space. Doughnuts and some hot cocoa could make it even more fun. Kids love painting or creating pottery. They will have even more fun when there are fun prizes to be won. Spread out a large piece of paper and draw a mural together. Other interesting ideas include picture frames, decorating boxes, and flowerpots.
5. Family Talent Show
Consider holding a talent show for your family. You can take turns singing, drawing, dancing, and appreciating other talents. Even if you do not have the most amazing singing voice or theatrical talent, you may still have a lot to show your family. Kids will love the chance to show off their favorite activities and talents. They enjoy every opportunity to be the center of attention. Let them decide what they want to do, plan it, and show it to the rest of the family.
The parents can try out something unexpected. Fun activities like playing guitar or doing cartwheels will be a pleasant surprise for your kids. The best thing about playing in front of your family is that there are no embarrassments. You can do the silliest things and still have fun.
Serve delicious snacks for the family to enjoy as they watch others perform. Having something delicious and filling will make the ‘talent show’ more rewarding.
6. Movie Night
Movie night does need to be boring. Even though turning off your technology can be great for relaxation, it is okay to make an exception for movie night. Take turns picking the movies and preparing snacks.
Having a theme for your movie night may be a great idea. You do not need to leave your home to enjoy an immersive experience. Dress to match the film you will be watching and set up matching decor where possible.
Make some themed snacks for your night. Popcorn is great but it can be boring. Themed snacks will make things more interesting. On a ‘Trolls’ night, for example, consider making a colorful bowl of jelly beans and pretzels.
Get a few comfortable pillows and blankets and cozy up while you watch your movie. Keep the phones away to ensure that everyone is fully present. Once the movie is over, talk about it. Find out what everyone liked or didn’t like.
Ideas for family fun nights are not always expensive. You can have fun without putting in too much time or effort. The secret is to understand the interests of your family and offer them appropriate entertainment options. In the end, families just want to spend time and have fun together.
