We are building family memories all the time. The pandemic has been
instrumental in building a ton of memories, especially in the beginning when people were forced to spend usual amounts of time together. Our family memories are forming whether we stay home and do nothing or start new family activities. The questions to us then becomes, are we going to be intentional about the memories we are building.
The good thing about family memories, we (the parents) can shape our children’s memories. The pandemic may have made you cautious about leaving the house, but it does not have to stop you from building quality memories. When you are just beginning to be intentional about building family memories, you may need help coming up with ideas for a family night. There is a book called “Making Family Memories,” by Rich and Bonnie Skinner. This book was published through Family Life, a Christian establishment that focuses on everything related to the family. This book offers at least 20 themed family night ideas, which allows you to plan a family night at least once a month.
Here are a few ideas for building family memories that are not in the book listed above. These ideas are things my family and I have found helpful to us. I wonder if you and your family would find them helpful as well?
- Board Games– Yes, I said board games! I realize that board games maybe outdated to some of you, but they still serve a purpose. When we play board games with our children, we learn so much about ourselves and them. It provides an opportunity for us to talk about how to handle winning and losing, it teaches them about taking turns, and gives them a break from technology.
- Movie Night– You are probably thinking, how does watching a movie build family memories? There is no talking during the movie, what makes this a good option? You are right, there is no initial connection. Watching a movie does not allow for talking, it only provides a chance to relax as a family. Learning how to relax as a family is also important. However, there are other ways to connect with your child/children even after the movie is over. When we watch a movie with our child/children we have something we can reference later. There have been many times when my children and I have referenced a funny phrase from a movie during our conversation. We will instantly try to recall what movie it came from, who said, or what they were referring too. When we recall a funny phrase, it reminds us of our family night and how much fun it was, and it makes us laugh all over again.
- Get Physical– Ride bikes together. If you are concerned about covid, wear a mask, and cross the street whenever people are headed in your direction. If you have a backyard, you can play a game with your kids (frisbee, catch, fly a kite). If you have a trampoline, jump on it with them! Your kids will love to see you jumping on the trampoline. Our kids want us to play with them, from time to time. It secretly says to them that we are interested in them and the things they like to do. And honestly, it gives us exercise, who could not use more exercise!
Christian Homeschool HQ Challenge: Mother’s Day is coming up. During this time, some people go out to eat or a nice meal is prepared for mom at home. Having a break from cooking is always nice and greatly appreciated. What if we thought a little deeper this year? How could we use this day to build a family memory?