Thank you to Mirum for sponsoring this post about family activities that are easy to implement on a busy weeknight!
I admit it, I'm guilty of collapsing on the couch after a long work day. Working with children all day is rewarding, but it's also exhausting. And honestly? Sometimes, as much as I'd love to stop go on a special mommy and me playdate after work….. it's just not realistic. I'm guilty. Totally guilty of putting on a movie so that we can all get some rest. But lately, I've been feeling like our busy weeknights are lacking quality time or family activities that give us time together. So, I spent a little time brainstorming. I came up with seven easy to implement family activities for busy weeknights (five minutes of prep or less, I promise). They've made a HUGE difference for us. While I'm still exhausted, by the time Lydia goes to bed……I feel like we've had at least a LITTLE bit of time to really connect and support each other as a family.
Family Activities for Week Nights
Draw Your Day: Sit down with crayons and paper to draw your favorite part about your day (mom and dad too). This simple activity is a great jumping off point to encourage everyone to share (you may even discover something new about your spouse's day)!
Charades: A simple game of charades is super fun, and can easily be adjusted for all ages. Start with favorite books or movies…..or even favorite places!
Board Games: We are JUST getting into family board games. Lydia has a few toddler / preschooler board games she loves, and it's a ton of fun to play them with her.
Neighborhood Stroll: Fall evenings are PERFECT for neighborhood walks. We grab Lydia's tricycle, let her get some energy out, and explore our neighborhood as the sun sets. It tires her out for bedtime, and it's really relaxing!
Make Your Own Dinner: Make your own pizza or make your tacos is a huge hit in our household (even with our picky eater). We love setting up the kitchen so that everyone can help make the dinner, and it's a great time to hang out together!
Gardening: We just started with a few potted plants. Lydia loves helping plant seeds or watering with her own watering can. Plus, we all love getting a little fresh air!
Family Ice Cream Party: Not gonna lie, a family ice cream party might be my favorite family activity (because…..ICE CREAM). At least twice a week, we take out the ice cream and toppings and enjoy a sweet treat after dinner (someone is obsessed with rainbow sprinkles lately). Lately we've been stocking up on a childhood favorite of MINE…..Breyers Vanilla Ice Cream. Bonus? Between now and September 30th, when you buy $20 worth of Unilever Ice Cream Brands (including Breyers) at Safeway, Albertson's, Vons or Pavilions you'll earn a $5 digital reward towards your next purchase.
What are YOUR favorite family activities for busy weeknights?
Those are fab ideas – I especially love the idea of the family ice cream party!