Picture this: You working in one room, your spouse in another, your children in their separate spaces. Working and studying from school necessitates the proper demarcation and dividing of “territories” in the house to avoid disturbances while on video call. Yet, this is a formula for isolation even though the family is physically together in the same home.
- Declutter
Housekeeping and organising is always a pain but having extra hands to help tidy up is helpful. Employ your family Marie Kondo style and clean your respective workspaces or rooms. Not only will this boost your productivity, it also makes for good conversation time to catch up with each other beyond family meals.
- Exercise together
A family that exercises together stays strong together. Choose exercises that are suitable for everyone. Some examples are cycling, swimming, table tennis and badminton.
- Watch comedy sketches online
Even if none of you say it, it’s been a stressful period for everyone. Unwind over comedy sketches or stand-up comedian specials online. Laugh your worries away because family time is always a good time.
- Movie Night at Home
Create your own cinema experience at home by putting Netflix on and whipping up a batch of popcorn or customise an assortment of your favourite snacks. If your family is a fan of action movies then have a Mission Impossible or James Bond marathon. If you prefer fantasy, have a Lord of the Rings marathon instead. The options are virtually endless!
- Board Games or Puzzles
This is an interactive activity that will reveal which of your family is the game master. Games like Monopoly Deal, Jenga and Cards Against Humanity are common favourites. Go old school with Othello or Battleship.
- Listen to Music
Everyone probably has different music tastes so why not find out what sounds tickle your family’s fancy and maybe even discover your new favourite songs or artists. A battle of the bands might even be on the cards. Each person picks their favourite band and the family has to vote for the songs they enjoy the most. After 5 rounds, the band with the most votes wins.
Feeling close to your family doesn’t have to be very complicated. All it really takes is being genuine and making time to have fun with each other without external distractions.