Low-Cost Ways to Spend More Time with Your Family

Between the difficult economic times and hectic schedules, American families are neglecting to spend time together. It is very important to set aside at least one day a week to do something as a family. Studies have shown that children who spend more time with their family do better in school, are more likely to stay out of trouble, and feel better about themselves. Here are some fun and low cost ways you and your family can reconnect.Low Cost Ways to Spend Time as a Family

• Picnic: Make some sandwiches and fresh lemonade. Throw in some pickles, fresh fruit and some pie for dessert. No need to get fancy; somehow things eaten while sitting on the grass under a bright shining sun seem to taste better. Bring a blanket to set out on the grass. Take along lots of outdoor toys and games. Bring balls, hula hoops, jump ropes and Frisbees. Finally, pick a big shady tree, set out your picnic and enjoy!
• Treasure hunt: This is a good way to teach siblings to cooperate, but can definitely be lots of fun for a single child as well. It's also something you can do in any season. Choose a treasure for your kids to find -- anything from movie tickets to costume jewelry. Then make up a bunch of clues and have each clue lead to another clue until they find the treasure. Make the clues slightly challenging (depending on your child's age). Have them search inside and outside (as long as weather permits).
• Family game night: This is something fun to do especially on cold winter nights. Make some hot cocoa and sit down at the table in your pjs to play. Involve the kids in picking out a collection of games, then rotate which game you play each week. Choose games that are educational so that your kids are learning as they have fun. Also choose some games that require action and movement, such as Twister. However, if you're pressed for money, you don't have to buy games to play. There are many games you can play with just pens and paper, such as hangman, wheel of fortune and anagrams.
• Tea party: Little girls especially love this one! To make this extra special, put invitations made in pretty stationery in your kids' lunchboxes, under their pillows or anywhere you know they'll be sure to find them. Tell them to dress up for the occasion. At the set day and time, set the table with tea cups and a plate of cookies, danishes or pie. Giving them real tea will make it extra special and make them feel grown up. You can fill half of the cup with milk if you don't want them drinking too much tea. Sit down with them and talk about things like how their day went.

Hopefully these examples of fun things to do with the family have inspired you to go ahead and plan your next family day. Choose something that will be the least stressful for you and something that suits your children's personalities. Remember, the most important aspect is that you and your children have fun!