Our lives are constantly on the move and sometimes it is difficult for families to get together, sit down, and simply spend time together.  Many families look to their dinner for their family time.  Around the table, everyone can gather to eat and chat about the latest and greatest.

What if one night slips by without the family-fun talk at dinner?  That means it is time for the family to look at some interesting alternatives for family time.  Here are two ideas to help get your thoughts rolling.

Board Game Night

OK, a simple idea, but an inexpensive alternative to going to a movie.  Plus, you will share great conversation with your family.  Ask everyone’s opinions on board games, purchase three or four games, and each week alternate what your family will play.  Simple inexpensive, games such as cards and dominoes are great ideas and an be played for hours.

Did You Know…? It will cost approximately $26.20 for a family of four to attend a movie, not including drinks or snacks.  Over one month, your family could spend $104.80 attending one movie per week.  Hasbro’s Monopoly board game is priced around $12.00, saving you $14.20 per week or $92.80 per month.

Family Book Club

There are many ways to spin the family book club depending on the age range of the children.  Families with young adults can use the same book list with classics or another enjoyable genre.  Each month, pick a new book to read and then set aside one night per week to share in discussion.  You will grow to love learning about the characters from family member’s views.

Families with children of various ages can create a book list specific for each age group.  Each month, each member will choose the next book on their list and the weekly discussions will be geared towards what they have learned from their book about the characters, theme, etc.

For very young children just learning to read maybe a reading circle is in order.  Gather your family around in a circle and parents can read aloud to their youngsters.  Parents can take turns.  One week include a book that your young reader can read to you.  This is a wonderful building block for encouraging reading long term.

This is an original Simple Home Basics post.