Bond where you are with what you have

Here are several simple ways you and your kids can step out of the norm, learn more about each other, and have fun in the process.

Wii Are Family

Whoever thought a game console would open new doors for family bonding? Gaming, a popular albeit isolating activity for kids, typically does little more than improve eye-hand coordination.  With the Wii, families are forced to get up on their feet and play among themselves. Studies have found that parents find the Wii has made parents feel closer to their children.  Tennis doubles, bowling matches, yoga, and racing together all make for great family interaction and scenes of absolute hilarity (imagine four people racing in place!).

Pillow Talk

In a busy family where you feel the children are simply passing you by, what better time is there than bedtime to regroup as a family?  A well-established nighttime ritual helps you make up for lost time with your kids.  At bedtime, every moment is about togetherness, focus and quality: reading a bedtime story, covering your children in prayer, and singing a lullaby (or anything, for that matter, sung in a soft, slow, soothing cadence). 

Preschool of Rock

Maybe a certain purple Jurassic creature’s repertoire of songs isn’t your idea of music fun. So, give ‘em an earful—expose kids to the sounds you love, not just children’s music.  Your kids may find rocking out to your personal top hits just as engaging.  Many adult songs encourage movement, which means you can skip the drudgery of going through the Hoky Poky. A guaranteed favorite: Rock You by Queen.  Watch your kids stamp and clap and forget all about If You’re Happy and You Know It.

The Scenic Route

When taking your kids to the park, stretch the time as long as possible by taking the long way ‘round.  If you have very young children, take time to point out birds, clouds, ants on the ground,  squirrels, and other things that spark their curiosity and enrich their world.  

Car-free Fun

A bucket and sponge, water guns and canons, and a garden hose, and you have all you need to help Dad wash the car. The added excitement of dressing kids up in swim gear is certain to turn the chore of car washing into unforgettable family fun.

Garden Growing

If you’re lucky enough to have a lawn or garden at this day and age, take advantage.  Tweak the family night ritual by pitching a tent and camping out.  Want to take the family to the movies?  Hang a white sheet and set up a projector in the garden, instead.  Add to the thrill by laying out a picnic mat and passing out generous bowls of popcorn.

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