Welp. The summer has come (or is coming) to an end. The leisurely summer schedule is over and now “the race” begins. Alarm clocks. Packed lunches. Homework. Teacher conferences. Sports. School clubs. It can begin to make the days feel like a blur. Before you know it your family can be on autopilot and counting down the days until the next summer arrives and family time is restored. However, you don’t have to wait until the next school vacation or summer break to slow down and connect as a family. Set aside a few minutes in your weekly schedule to engage in family bonding time. Be intentional and you will keep the relationship with your child strong. If you want to have fantastic relationships with your kids, be involved in their lives and engage in meaningful interactions. I will share some ideas for family bonding as you all transition from summer break to the school year.
Game Nights
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to bond with your family is through game nights. Set aside one evening a week where everyone gathers around the table for some friendly competition. Whether it’s classic board games like Monopoly, card games like Uno, or even interactive video games, the key is to have fun together. Game nights can help teach kids important life skills such as teamwork, strategy, and patience. Plus, they offer a chance to laugh and create lasting memories.
For some game inspiration, check out these Top Family Board Games to find something that will suit your family's interests and age ranges.
Craft Making
Gather your art supplies, clear a space in your or go outside, and embark on creative adventures with your kids. It doesn’t have to be time intensive either. You can make greeting cards, build a birdhouse, or paint on a canvas. You could also get blank postcards and design them with water colors. You can send your creations to friends or family as gifts and tokens of appreciation and love. This experience is more than just crafting, it's a way to build a stronger, more connected relationship with your children.
Cook Together
Whether you like to cook or not, cooking is a fun bonding activity that you can do with your kids! It doesn’t have to be elaborate cooking either. You could chop fruits or vegetables together or make peanut butter sandwiches. If you need some cooking inspiration you can order a subscription cooking box for kids. There are many great options including Raddish Kids and Yummy Crate. These boxes will send monthly cooking ideas and you can shop together and then make delicious new recipes to try together! A bonus of this bonding activity is that children are more willing to try foods they otherwise wouldn’t be excited about when they are cooking it.
Outdoor Adventures
Don’t let the school year keep you confined indoors. Make it a point to plan outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. Whether it’s a weekend hike, a trip to a local park, or just a walk around the neighborhood, spending time outdoors can be incredibly refreshing. Not only does it provide a break from screens and homework, but it also promotes physical activity and an appreciation for nature.
For more ideas on outdoor activities, visit National Park Service's Family Activities for inspiration on where to go and what to do.
Family Reading Time
Reading together as a family can be a wonderful bonding experience. Choose a book that everyone will enjoy and set aside some time each week to read it together. This can be done by taking turns reading aloud or simply discussing the book’s themes and characters. Family reading time not only fosters a love for books but also encourages critical thinking and conversation.
For book recommendations, check out Scholastic’s Family Reading Guide to find age-appropriate books that your family will love.
Volunteer Together
Volunteering as a family can be a deeply rewarding experience. It teaches children the importance of giving back to the community and fosters a sense of empathy and responsibility. Whether it’s helping out at a local food bank, participating in a community clean-up, or visiting a nursing home, there are countless ways to get involved.
To find volunteer opportunities near you, visit VolunteerMatch and search for family-friendly activities.
Movie Nights
Turn your living room into a cozy theater for a family movie night. Choose a movie that everyone will enjoy, make some popcorn, and snuggle up together. This is a great way to unwind after a busy week and share some laughs or even tears together. You can also take turns picking the movie each week to ensure everyone gets a chance to share their favorites.
Conclusion
Balancing the demands of the school year with meaningful family time can be challenging, but it’s certainly achievable. By incorporating these activities into your weekly routine, you can ensure that your family stays connected and engaged, no matter how busy life gets. Remember, the key is to be intentional and make the most of the time you have together.
