Summer is here and many families are packing up for a memorable family vacation. Sometimes families arrive home from their trip exhausted and irritable. Planning relaxed family time together at home can be an alternative. Slow down the pace and plan for a family night in.
What is a “family night in?” It’s doing something together at home that everyone in the family can enjoy. It doesn’t have to be a major event. Simple things are often the most relaxing. Family members can all appreciate spending some “downtime” together without lists, deadlines, and schedules.
Here are some ideas to begin thinking about your June family night in.
- If you like the outdoors and live in a safe neighborhood, plan a backyard camp out. Roast hot dogs and marshmallows over a campfire or barbecue grill, sing campfire songs and sleep in a tent in the backyard.
- Have an indoor camp out. Select one room for your “camp” and bring your sleeping bags or blankets and pillows. Turn off the lights and TV and use your flashlights to make shadow pictures on the walls. Include storytelling, but don’t make it too spooky. The idea is to have fun, not cause nightmares.
- Have a “swap” picnic. Let each family member pack a basket, box or bag with a picnic meal for one person. When everyone arrives at the picnic site, each person picks a basket—not their own! There are surprises waiting for everyone.
- Play active games together like freeze tag or hide and seek. Kids will love having adults play also.
- Have a concert. A guitar, harmonica or other musical instruments can provide the music, or make your own instruments. Create a band by playing the spoons, blowing on a bottle, tapping on cans or strumming rubber bands across a box lid.
- Go on an earthworm hunt in your yard. Take your flashlights out on a warm night after a rain and see if you can find any earthworms.
- Take turns drawing pictures with your fingers on the backs of family members. The person being drawn on has to guess what the picture is.
Now it’s time for your family night in. The only rule is that everyone in the family gets to participate and have fun. So, turn off the TV, computer, and other devices, turn down the invitation to another event outside the home and tune in to sharing an enjoyable evening relaxing as a family.
Source: Family Night In tip sheet. University of Illinois Extension.
Author: Brenda McClellan, Retired Illinois Extension Educator, Family Life.