Simple Activities for Family Bonding
Most of us understand the importance of spending quality time with our families. Unfortunately, our free time gets gobbled up by basketball practices, violin lessons, and soccer games. When you finally get a minute to breathe, you just want to vege out in front of the TV! Who has the time (or the energy) for any complicated activities meant to help our families bond?
That’s why I’m a big advocate for simple activities for family bonding that bring families together. Here are a few of my favorite activities that can help you to bond with your family…Try them with your own family and see what you think!
Fun Activities for Family Bonding
Family Meals
Sharing a meal together is a simple but powerful way to connect with your family. We are in a season right now where finding time for all 6 of us to sit down together is nearly impossible (and that makes me SO sad)!
Try to make it a habit to eat dinner together as often as possible (even if it’s only once or twice per week). We have resorted to having dinner around 4:30 just so we can sit down for even 15 minutes before everyone is off to their activities. Use this time you have to talk about your day, share stories, and just enjoy each other’s company.
Family Game Night
Whether it’s board games, card games, or video games, there’s nothing like a little friendly competition to bring a family together. Not only is a game night a great way to have fun and unwind, but it can also teach important lessons like sportsmanship and problem-solving.
I love seeing families with grown children carrying on the tradition of playing board games. They loved playing together so much growing up that they now involve their spouses and even next generation in the fun!
Family Activities
I LOVE holidays and all the fun changes that come with each season! You can find so many fun things to do with your kids for each occasion… if you have time! That’s why I created the Faithful Family Collective. It’s a collection of engaging family activities, crafts, recipes and so much more delivered to your inbox each month, check out the Faithful Family Collective here!!
Movie Night
Snuggle up on the couch with some popcorn (if your rebels like my bunch, add some M&Ms) and watch a movie together. You could even take turns choosing the movie each week to make sure everyone gets a chance to see something they like. Here are a few ideas for great family movies, some new ones and some are just classics:
- E.T.
- The Sound of Music
- Mary Poppins
- The Princess Bride
- Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
- Home Alone
- The Parent Trap
- Jungle Cruise
- Annie
- Jumanji
- Despicable Me
- Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
- Mulan (2020)
Outdoor Adventures
Whether it’s a hike in the woods, a trip to the beach, or just a walk around the neighborhood, spending time outside can be a great way to bond as a family. Not only does it give you a chance to enjoy nature and get some exercise, but it also provides an opportunity for conversation and connection.
My kids love to walk down the driveway after dark in the summer. We live off the road and as we walk, they hid behind bushes and trees to scare their dad and me– it’s such a sweet time!
Volunteer Work
Giving back to the community can be a great way to bond as a family while also making a positive impact on the world around you. Look for volunteer opportunities in your area, whether it’s serving at a soup kitchen, participating in a charity walk, or helping out at a local animal shelter.
Family Projects
Get creative and work on a project together! Whether it’s painting, gardening, scrapbooking, or building something from scratch. Not only does this provide an opportunity for quality time, but it can also help develop creativity and problem-solving skills. Not to mention, everything seems easier when you have a little help!
Storytelling and Family History
Take some time to share family stories and history with your children. This can help build a sense of identity and belonging, and also provide an opportunity for children to learn about their ancestors and heritage.
Make sure your kids get to spend some quality time with their grandparents and other extended family. Let them soak up the wisdom that comes from the older generations.
Go To Church Together
I know, I’ve said this before, but we need to teach our children the importance of worshipping God regularly! Hebrews 10:25 says,
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
The example we set is what will show our kids that we are serious about serving God, so let’s put first things first!
Low-Stress Activities for Family Bonding On The Go
My family is on the road a lot, so my husband has started playing ‘Would You Rather’ with them as we drive. Other easy things that your family could enjoy are:
- Listen to & sing along with your favorite songs (we like 90s country)
- Listen to audio dramas like Adventures in Odyssey
- Tell Jokes or Riddles
- Play I-Spy or do a Scavenger Hunt
Find Your Own Unique Ways to Bond With Your Family
These are just a few simple ideas for bonding activities that you can try with your family. The most important thing is to find something that works for your family and make it a priority to spend time together regularly. As Christians, we know that family is a gift from God, and it’s up to us to cherish and nurture that gift.
Want more fun ideas for ways to bond as a family thru simple everyday traditions? Click here!