Spending quality time with the family is always a top priority for parents. Still, sometimes it can be hard to think of new and exciting things to do together. If you’re looking for some inspiration, look no further! Here are 15 different activities that you and your family can enjoy together.
1. Go out to dinner at a restaurant near you.
This is a great way to spend time together as a family and try new foods. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to teach kids about table manners and how to behave in public. If you’re out and about, Nando’s is a great chain restaurant to eat at as it’s super-family friendly with a lot of choices to go around. If you’re a big fan of chicken-based dishes, Nando’s will have you licking your lips!
2. Play some sports together and get the blood flowing
Whether throwing a football around in the park or hitting some tennis balls at the local court, playing sports is a great way to bond with your kids while getting some exercise. In fact, your kids will thank you later for it, as it will also help them develop patience, fitness and stamina.
3. Explore the cityscape and discover new areas
Explore your neighborhood or visit a nearby city you’ve never been to. This is a great opportunity to learn about new places and cultures together. One of the best ways of doing this is hiring out bikes for the day, cycling briskly around the city, and stopping at various coffee shops for refreshments.
4. Hire yourself a good photographer for the day
One of the best things you can do if you’re around in a place like London is hire a family photographer for a day to follow you around and take beautiful candid photographs. This is a great way to capture memories that will last a lifetime, as you’ll be able to look at them repeatedly. Some families go even further and purchase beautiful albums to go with their digital photos, so they have something more real in their hands. Finally, it’s a pretty great feeling for the whole family to be able to dress up and feel like a mini-celebrity.
5. Play board games or card games together.
These classic family activities are always enjoyable and can be done regardless of the weather outside. Some great examples of board games are Uno or monopoly. Although be warned that the latter can create some real tense situations, especially if your family is very competitive. Wirecutter has more ideas if you’re interested in looking at more board games.
6. Bake or cook together.
Trying out new recipes and then sharing the results is a fun way to spend time together as a family. It’s also a great opportunity to teach kids about measuring ingredients and following directions.
7. Go on a nature hike or walk.
Getting some fresh air is always good for the mind and body, plus it’s an opportunity to see some beautiful scenery and possibly even wildlife up close! Your kids will also thank you for the walk because they’ll be able to encounter new environments, especially if they’re cooped up in a city.
8. Visit a museum or art gallery together.
There are many museums and galleries with exhibits that will interest everyone in the family, from history buffs to art lovers. The Tate Modern is a beautiful post-modernist art gallery that’s super fun for all. It comes with pieces of art from various genres. However, this venue is more for older children because of some of the art there. Another is the national science museum which has great experiences to do as a family, like IMAX screenings, a clockmakers museum and even a space gallery.
9. Go golfing or mini golfing together.
Golf is a great way to spend time outdoors while still being able to talk and bond with your kids (and hopefully not get too frustrated!). Mini golf is also an option if you want something more fast-paced and less challenging.
10. Have a picnic in the park or in your backyard.
Eating outdoors is always enjoyable, plus it’s much more relaxed than having a formal meal inside the house. Think beautiful potato salads, sunny weather and delicious ham sandwiches to gobble with the kids. However, sadly, this one is for the summer unless you feel really brave.
11. Take on some exhilarating camping.
Camp out in the backyard (or go camping on an actual campsite if you’re feeling adventurous!). This is a great activity for all ages and can be done right in your own backyard if you don’t feel like venturing too far from home base.
12. Go fishing together as a family
Fishing can be peaceful and relaxing or exciting if you catch something big! It’s also another activity where you can bond with your kids while teaching them patience and responsibility (taking care of the fish).
13. Attend a local fair or carnival.
These are usually only around for short periods, so check out when one will be happening near you! They’re often packed with rides, games, food, and other attractions that the whole family will enjoy
14. Ride go-karts
This one definitely goes on the list of “more fun than exercise,” but it’s still good to get outside and try something new! And who doesn’t love racing their siblings or spouse?
15. Have a blast with Karaoke night!
This one will entertain everyone involved (and maybe even give you some laughs). You can do this at home by using karaoke apps on your phone or tablet, or head out to your local karaoke bar for an even better experience, complete with music and drinks. (Just don’t forget to tip your waiter/waitress!)
Hopefully, this list has inspired you with some new ideas for things to do with your family! Quality time spent together is always valuable, so take advantage of opportunities when they arise.
