Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Select an evening that each family member can attend game night. If you have teenagers who work evenings or other scheduling conflicts, try holding game night in the afternoon. Mark game night on the calendar and block off at least two hours for family members to spend time together. This will allow enough time for at least one or two rounds of your family's favorite games.
Encourage each family member to select a game to play. Games do not have to necessarily be for more than one player. Two player games can be modified into team games, or two family members can play while others watch from the sidelines. Allowing each person to choose a game each week ensures that everyone has a chance to play a game that they enjoy. If you have an especially large family, alternate who chooses games each week. Mark the calendar with whose turn it is to select a game so that everyone gets a chance to share their favorite game.
Prepare an assortment of healthy snacks for game nights. Games are mentally exhausting and many families enjoy sharing a variety of snacks together while playing games. Assign one person each week to be the "snack person" who plans and prepares the week's snack menu. Choose snacks that everyone enjoys and can eat together. If a family member has food allergies, keep that in mind when selecting a snack. Snack ideas include fruit and cheese, chips and dip and crackers with vegetable toppings. Remember to select foods that can easily be eaten without utensils.
Keep the mood light by awarding prizes to family members each week. Prior to game night, select an assortment of inexpensive prizes. At the end of each game night, give prizes for the best performance, weakest performance, best attitude and most helpful player. Prize ideas include a candy bar, notebook, pack of bubble gum, favorite soft drink, novelty erasers or a small gift certificate.
Ask family members to turn off cell phones and put away other distractions, such as paperwork or textbooks during family game time. Remind each person that the purpose of a family tradition is to grow closer together as a family and to strengthen the love and closeness of your relationship.