Having a close connection to my family is one of my number one priorities. I’m always looking for activities we can do together to help us connect peacefully. Life can be so busy and full of noise. I want my kids to see the beauty in life and grow into people who appreciate the little things in between. I hope you try some of our favourite free family activities that encourage growth and connection.
Slowing Down
Weekdays are so busy, we move from activity to activity and don’t have much time to connect and enjoy family time. I try to bring some peace to our week by finding small ways to slow down. I wake the kids up a bit earlier so I have some time to listen to their stories about their dreams, or chat about the upcoming day. We also start their bedtime routine right after dinner so we all have time to relax and do something to unwind before bed. Lately, I’ve been trying to have a bit of one-on-one time with each kid before bed. They all LOVE this. It reminds me how much kids value time with us and that we need to make it more of a priority. As parents, we are so used to moving from task to task that we sometimes forget that what we need is connection. On the weekend I try to leave one day free to be at home. The kids have free play time together and we can all just be home without anywhere to be. I highly recommend it. Our society loves to be busy, but slowing down has been very nourishing for our family.
Our Favourite Free Family Activities
- Get out in nature: This is by far my favourite. Whether it be a neighbourhood walk, a hike, or a trip down to the river, time in nature is the best way to connect. Gabor Mate says free spontaneous play in nature is one of children’s basic needs. Being in nature has many benefits. It promotes peace and calmness within, connects you to the earth and its gifts, improves your physical health, and allows you to clear the mind and relax. Being in nature with my family will enable us to connect without any distractions, it truly is the best.
- Baking: My love of baking has been passed down from my grandmother. Some of my favourite childhood memories are baking with my grandma, so naturally, I love doing this with my kids. It’s free of distraction(if you allow it to be) and it’s a great way to teach kids how to follow instructions. They feel so proud of themselves at the end when they taste their delicious creation. I take this time to teach my kids about nourishment. We usually use cleaner ingredients than your average recipe and I teach them why we chose to bake that way and how healthy food makes your body feel. I try to let them take the lead even though it makes A LOT more mess. It truly is such a great way to connect with children through creation and education.
- Play a game of their choice: Do you find yourself saying no to a lot of your children’s requests? I catch myself doing this all the time. Why? Because it’s easier for me and I’m tired. They are only little for so long so loosen up and play a game of their choice. My kid’s favourites are hide and seek, card games, puzzles, mouse trap, and the floor is lava. Your kids will be overjoyed with a half hour of undivided attention. Research shows that time can help avoid tantrums and uncooperative behaviour. Also, it can be a lot of fun :).
- Spa day: My girls LOVE this and it’s so relaxing for me too. First, they do a nice warm bath and after I set them up all cozy on the couch or bed. We do manicures, pedicures and massages. I even play relaxing music and talk in a quiet spa voice. It’s a hit! I haven’t included my son in this yet, as he can’t sit for 2 minutes haha. I like to incorporate some mindfulness into our spa time. Mindfulness teaches kids to be in the present moment and allow thoughts and feelings to be felt and thought healthily.
- Movie night: I try to make this really fun! We have an early dinner and get ready for bed as usual and I surprise them with a new movie and a fun snack. My kids love this and when I announce it’s a movie night the look on their faces is priceless. I much prefer doing this than going to the theatre. It’s much more relaxing and we can spend better quality time together as a family. We can chat freely about the movie, take breaks and snuggle. Also, we avoid overpriced junk food.
Keep It Simple
Our generation is all about being busy and making things complicated. While we still do big family outings sometimes, I find keeping things simple is so much better. It allows us to really connect with our kids and hear what they have to say. When we are at a big play area running around, yes it’s fun, but we are not relaxed and able to connect more deeply. I encourage you to slow down, keep it simple and try some of our favourite free family activities. Be well!
xo Alayna
