During the shortened days of winter, it is easy to
feel a bit down. Though it may feel occasionally like there’s nowhere to go or
nothing to do, especially this year, you have the power to make your own fun
and strengthen relationships in the process. Here are 7 fun family hobbies for you
to explore right away.
1. Arts and Crafts
Doing arts and crafts is a fun
way to express your creativity and build new skills. If you already consider
yourself an artist, consider learning some new skills or exploring a new
medium. Invite family members to participate in your learning or to create
their own art. If you are new to express your creative side, never fear.
YouTube is a treasure trove of how-to videos from everything from crochet to
drawing to jewelry making. You can take online courses as a family and help
boost each other’s creativity.
2. Exercise
Whether you are an athlete or have a
casual relationship to exercise, working out can be a healthy and exciting way
to bond with your family and build good habits. If you want to keep it low-key,
have regular dance parties with the members of your household. If you would
like something more structured, there is a wide array of online classes to
explore. You and your family can even spice up your exercise with some
competition. Various fitness trackers and apps allow you to create challenges
and track your progress.
3. Garden
Though it might seem to be the wrong time
of year for gardening, it’s never too early to get a jump start on planning
your garden. Before spring arrives, decide what type of garden you would like –
in-ground, container, or raised bed. Then, let each member of the family decide
on one vegetable or plant they would like to grow. Consider planting a
pollinator garden of native plants. It will provide hours of entertainment for
children as they watch the bees and butterflies gather nectar.
4. Play Games
Who doesn’t love to play games? Whether
you pick your family favorite to play again and again or rotate games from week
to week, playing games as a family affords you the opportunity to enjoy each
other’s company in a low-stress environment. Set aside the week’s worries and
immerse yourself in play.
5. Reading
Snuggling up with a book under a warm
blanket is a wonderful way to spend the cold winter days. You can set aside
time each day for the whole family to read and perhaps talk about what they are
reading. Swapping favorite books is a good way to gain insight into our loved
ones. You can also create family book
clubs in which everyone reads the same book. Thanks to video conference
platforms, you can even have book groups with family members who live far away.
6. Photography
Modern technology makes it simple for
us to practice the art of capturing images. Photography allows us to have fun,
express ourselves, and save memories for the future. Allowing children to take
family photographs and document family activities will make them feel like part
of the action.
7. Cooking or Baking
Everybody has to eat, so why not
eat something delicious? Winter is the perfect time to master some new recipes
or pass down family traditions to the next generation. Cooking as a family
requires cooperation and negotiation, and it is an excellent way to teach
children other skills such as measuring and simple math. Find some food
bloggers you enjoy and try out their techniques and recipes or create your own.
Creating culinary masterpieces, or just good food, with your family will help
your family enjoys their time together any time of the year.
No matter which hobby you choose, make sure it is
enjoyable and meaningful to you. Studies show that people who practice hobbies
can lower their stress and improve their moods. Find something you and your
family can agree on or take turns choosing activities each family member enjoys
and support each other in them. That way, everyone benefits. And don't forget to fuel your fun with Superberries Aroniaberry Gummy Chews.
