How to Have Fun With Kids Without All the Fuss

As we all continue to spend more time with our energetic kids, we often look for ways to have fun with them.

The problem?

There are now thousands of activities to do with your kids. And MOST of them include a lot of work on the parents’ part. We are supposed to set up, clean up, and buy supplies for every single activity. And yet, often kids are interested for only a few minutes, or it takes a lot of effort to keep them engaged.

So today, what if we take a different approach? Let’s play with our kids without the use of screens. Or materials. Let’s just talk. OR play. Here are five ways to enjoy your home time with the kiddos without the fluff.

Play Would You Rather

First, this one gets creative and silly in no time! Ask kids simple things like "would you rather have to do the dishes or wash the laundry?" Or get silly with "would you rather fly or be invisible?" You’re sure to have a great time no matter which way you go with the questions.

Interview Them

What do your kids love? What do they hate?

You can learn a lot of important things about your child if you just take the time to ask and listen. So, check out these birthday interview questions that are great for any time to get the talking started. Questions include:

• What’s your favorite food/toy/show?
• Would you rather play with your family or your friends?
• What’s the best thing about being seven?

Play I Spy

Next, this classic is great for learning colors, but as they get older, you can do so many more things. Try shapes and harder descriptions, and take turns trying to stump each other for ultimate fun.

Play a Variation on the Alphabet Game

Take turns coming up with words that begin with each letter! Try it with animals, objects in your house, etc. Or use clues to have players guess what the object is that begins with that letter.

For another fun variation, play alphabet gratitude. Participants have to say something they are grateful for that begins with that letter! This game is perfect in November!

Play Rock Paper Scissors

This old standby is LOVED by kids at almost all ages. Not into this one? Other easy physical games include thumb wars, hide and seek, and tag.

In Conclusion

There you have it! Five ways to connect with your loved ones effortlessly.

Need more? Try…

• Freeze tag
• 20 questions
• Tic tac toe
• The story game (each person tells a sentence of a made up story)
• Ask "what if" questions. "What if the moon was made of cheese?"

No screens, no millions of tiny pieces spread across your floor. No excuses.

Just plain old fun. Now get to it!

Enjoy, and don’t forget to laugh!

"I have a wonderful shelter, which is my family." – Jose Carreras