5 Family Fun Ideas to Kickstart Your Summer!

Leah Hastings - 14 Jun 17

Children grow up fast! We all know it – it shouldn’t be much of a surprise after our parents said the same about us. One minute, they’re three-years-old and ready for story time. Then the next time you look, they’re a tween, and lost to the outside world thanks to a cell phone. While time may seem to move at lightning speed, all hope isn’t lost! Here are five great ways to encourage fun, quality time together and create some incredible memories this summer!

 1. Game Night  

Picture this; cell phones and other devices are stowed away, the kitchen table has been cleared after dinner, and your main focus is which Uno card to play for the success or demise of the family member to your left. Even in 2017, you can never go wrong with a board game night. A game is a game regardless of the level of technology it takes to play. Sitting down together as a family to play a game is an amazing way to bond, catch-up, and train the next generation of real estate gurus. Ready to buy Park Place?

 2. Picnic in the Park

When was the last time your family packed a basket of food and went to the park? It seems daunting (especially with younger children) to carry around food and games to entertain everyone. A picnic in the park isn’t as scary as it may seem though. While technology is advancing and children seem to be growing up quicker than ever, a seven-year-old with an iPad is still a seven-year-old! They want to play outside, climb trees, and swing on a swing set just as much as you did as a kid. So, pack some delicious pasta salad (recipe from one of my favorite food blogs!) and snacks, throw in a hula hoop, and you are set! You can make hours of fun and memories just by changing up your lunch spot and adventuring outdoors!

3. Backyard Camping

This has to be my favorite summer-time activity. A weekend away to camp isn’t always feasible, especially with every child’s conflicting activity schedule. Even though there can be a good amount of prep work that goes into a weekend getaway, if you have a tent, you have an oasis. Pitch your tents in the backyard and enjoy camping a bit closer to home. You can still enjoy the glow of a campfire, the taste of s’mores, and time together, all within 100 feet of your back door. Trust me, these are the nights your children will never forget!

 4. Movie Night

While a family movie night may not be technology-free, with a “cell-phone free” policy, it can be a great way to spend some quality time together. Nothing says relaxing like a big bowl of popcorn, some comfy chairs, and a movie that interests the whole family. Plus, when the movie is over, the whole family will have even more to talk about as they regale the last hour and a half of epic cinema magic! If you are looking for more wholesome family entertainment, check out Pure Flix, a Christian movie resource, with inspiring movies to engage the whole family!

5. Family Potluck

Growing up, my mom liked to celebrate birthdays by cooking a special dinner for each member of the household. If it was your birthday and your favorite food was cooked spinach, the whole family was eating cooked spinach for dinner. Having a “favorites” dinner doesn’t have to wait for birthdays though. Next time you’re looking for some dinner inspiration, let everyone pick one dish and have everyone help in preparing that dish. While your five-year-old might not be the world’s greatest chef yet, they will have a blast helping you prepare their favorite mac & cheese. Make dinner more than a meal and get the whole family involved in cooking!

Here’s the thing – it doesn’t take much to make a family night special. A little creativity and everyone’s participation can go a long way from a shared meal between distracted individuals. Make the most out of every meal or weekend home with your family. Not only will you have some amazing stories to tell, but you’ll also pass down some wonderful traditions to your kids to pass on to their own someday! Enjoy your summer!

Leah Hastings

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