The best present you can give to your children this year is your undivided time and attention. Honestly no amount of money or the latest toy will replace that. Believe it or not we’re more divided as families than at any point in history.
Let’s go back 50 years ago I’m sure Christmas Day wasn’t a quick rush to open the presents ( maybe just the adults ) eat and drink then scroll the socials wondering what everyone else is up to.
“Your presence is a present in it self.”
Our kids don’t see much of us and we don’t really see them either. Think of a typical Monday morning for an average family. The parents head off to work and the kids will head off to school. We then spend maybe 3 or 4 hours in the evening possibly interacting, then bed and repeat 5 days a week.
I know after a long day at work you barely have energy to think of what to eat let alone giving your full attention to the kids. We can at least make an exception during the Christmas break.
Away from the PS5’s, XBox’s, IPads and Nintendo Switches here’s 3 simple family games to get everyone involved and away from the screens.
1. Charades – a classic that never gets old.
Charades is a guessing game in which players try to guess a word or phrase based on clues given by another player. The game can be played with any number of players, but it works best with at least four. To play charades, one player thinks of a word or phrase while the other players try to guess what it is.
2. Pictionary – unleash your artistic skills.
Pictionary is a lively and entertaining party game that combines drawing skills with guessing abilities. Players take turns illustrating a word or phrase through drawings, while their teammates try to guess what it is within a time limit. The catch is that no verbal communication is allowed during the drawing process, adding a hilarious and sometimes challenging element to the game. It’s a fantastic way to unleash creativity, foster teamwork, and guarantee plenty of laughter among friends and family.
3. Scavenger Hunt – add a festive twist to the hunt.
A scavenger hunt is an exciting and interactive activity where participants search for specific items or solve clues within a designated area. Players or teams are given a list of items to find or tasks to complete, and they race against each other to accomplish the objectives. Scavenger hunts can be organised in various settings, outside and indoor spaces. The element of exploration, problem-solving, and collaboration makes scavenger hunts a thrilling and engaging adventure for groups of all ages.
In the years to come, it’s not the extravagant gifts that will be remembered.
It’s the simple moments spent together—the laughter while baking cookies, the excitement of decorating the tree, or the joy of opening presents. Quality time creates memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
