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INDOOR FREE FAMILY FUN IDEAS
Who says that fun has to cost? Here are some free activity ideas that the entire family can enjoy.
Go on a camp in – If you are squeamish about bugs or it is too hot outside, how about camping indoors? Move the furniture against the walls and clear a space in the center of the room. Everyone can bring out their sleeping bags, wear their best pajamas and sleep under the ceiling fan instead of the stars.
This is a great way to get younger kids used to the idea of camping out. If it can fit, erect a small tent. Sit around and tell ghost stories, eat popcorn and thoroughly enjoy each other’s company.
Family game night – This is fun not only for smaller kids but parents and teenagers as well. You can hold your game night once a week. Allow different family members a chance to choose the game for that night. Smaller kids who are not old enough to play can be on a team with an adult or watch and cheer everyone else on as they play to win. Board games like Monopoly, Clue, Sorry and Life never go out of style.
For techno-savvy kids, upgrade to interactive virtual reality video games on the Wii or Xbox system. Trivia games like “Scene It?” also provide a new challenge for parents and teens. Don’t neglect card games. Spades, Old Maid (for the younger set), Memory and poker can provide hours of family excitement on a summer night.
Hold a cooking contest – Kids love to learn new things. If you get them in the kitchen they may surprise you. Give them a chance to put their culinary skills to the test. You can recreate your favorite cooking show. Set down the ground rules; choose a family member to be the judge and may the best cook win!
Create crafts – Crafting has grown far beyond pipe cleaners, construction paper, glitter and glue. Invest in crafting kits at your local Michaels or A.C. Moore store. Create stunning jewelry; make lanyards (just like in summer camp); crochet or knit a scarf; paint stained glass. All of these ideas can appeal to both kids and teens and provide hours of fun, especially on a rainy day.
Have a cinema day – Each person chooses a movie that they like. They can introduce the feature to the group and then everyone sits back to watch. An alternative idea is to showcase home movies. Reminisce over old times and have a few laughs.
Work on a family project – Do you want to redecorate the living room or a bedroom? Spend the day painting, rearranging furniture, hanging pictures and other accents to create a unique room. If you’ve ever watched home makeover shows then you know this can be accomplished on a shoestring budget.
Host a sleepover – All you have to do is provide the space and a little food. Ask the kids to bring their own sleeping bags and a movie or two. Set up in the living room just like for your indoor camping adventure.
Karaoke night – Who can sing in your family? Even if no one can carry a tune, see who can do it best by hosting a karaoke night. Get up and sing and dance to your favorite songs. Hold a contest. See who can dress in the most original outfit and impress the rest of the group.
Create science experiments – Who says that science is just for school? You can find simple experiments explained on the internet. For example, what happens when you add baking soda to water inside of a balloon? Try it and find out. Kids love to play mad scientist. Clear a place for your experiments where it doesn’t matter if you make a mess.
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