Home > Good Old-Fashioned Family Fun
Posted by admin on Friday, February 24th, 2012
Spending quality time with the whole family is important. And, no, watching TV or a movie together doesn’t count. Shut down the computers, tablets, e-readers, mp3 players, and smart phones, too.
“What’s left?” you ask.
I had the same question. So I went down to the library, checked out some old articles, popped them into the microfiche viewer and read about what the heck people used to do for fun.
Board games
Did you know that before Words with Friends, there was a game called Scrabble? It’s true.
Many of the newfangled computerized games we know and love today were once board games. To play them, you had to be in the same room with – and talk to – the people you were playing against. And, you know what? Apparently, it was quite a hoot.
In addition to Scrabble, other favorites I’ve heard about during my weekly visits to the nursing home include Trivial Pursuit, Monopoly and, for families with younger kids, Candyland and Hi-Ho Cherry-O.
Take a trip down to your local toy emporium or antique store and pick up a board game or two. You might be surprised how much fun you and your family have.
Talent show
Let’s see, how can I put this in a way that Americans living in 2012 will understand?
Ok, you’ve heard of the show “America’s Got Talent,” right? Imagine that, but instead of desperate contestants, bright lights, and a panel of B-list celebrities; it’s just you and your family doing your best to entertain each other.
Sounds amazing, huh? It’s simple too. Just take turns singing, dancing, or acting out scenes from your favorite TV shows or movies.
You can even take it into the realm of weird talents. Show off your double-jointedness or your ability to put a piece of spaghetti up your nose and pull it out your mouth.
Anything goes at a family talent show. It should be a safe and fun environment where everyone feels comfortable getting up and sharing his or her talent no matter how small or silly.
Dress-up family photo
Create your own awkward family photo. Dig out the weirdest and funniest props and costumes you can find. Then put them on and pose for the camera.
Admittedly, this one does utilize a bit of modern technology, since you’ll most-likely be using a digital camera to snap the pics, but at least you’ll be bonding and interacting with the whole family.
Plus, it’s the 21st century. Google is creating a digital map of the Great Barrier Reef for crying out loud. If you’re just using a digital camera, that classifies as old-fashioned.
Content by Carter P.








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