These days, people pass the time with gadgets and devices that take away those precious bonding moments between the parents and the kids. If you're a parent who wants to do away with mindlessly scrolling social media or Netflix, then it might be time to establish new family hobbies to try together.
Amid everyone's busy life with school or work, making a point to connect and spend quality time with family is not an option. According to a study in the Journal of Marriage and Family, creating memories through family hobbies when the kids are still young can help with their development and equip them with the skills to navigate their own life when they live the nest as grown-ups.
So, from time to time, ditch the gadgets, turn off the internet, and do these family hobbies together with your children:
1. Go on nature walks.
Hiking is a great family hobby and a fantastic form of exercise. Studies have also proven that exposing children outdoors can boost their immune systems and improve their mental health.
If you're not sure where to start, a trip around the neighborhood park will do, but you can also plan extensive nature walks at the nearest reserve in your area every weekend. There is a bonus to hiking as well as the children can also stumble upon various flora and fauna that can be a learning moment. Make the hike enjoyable by printing out photos and details of the potential wildlife to spot in the area.
2. Attend music festivals or concerts in the city.
Studies have also shown that music can ignite all aspects of development for kids, such as their literacy and language skills, social and emotional behavior, and motor and intellectual abilities. Bringing them to music festivals, especially those conducted outdoors where they can relax by the grass, can also foster their creativity.
The festivals do not have to feature famous artists as many cities and towns in the U.S. have weekly small-scale concerts with impressive cover bands. It's also a good idea to expose the children to different genres of music, so they develop culture and appreciation for the arts. According to the experts, a humanistic education, such as the love for music, helps people draw meaning and goals in their life.
3. Foster an animal.
Many animal shelters require more families to help temporarily care for animals before they are ready for adoption. Fostering an animal is a fun way to educate the children about responsibilities. This will also teach them values like empathy, kindness, and care.
Parents might want to take it up a notch further by volunteering at an animal shelter for families with older children. Getting involved will also be a rewarding experience and will give everyone in the family a sense of accomplishment.
4. Cook one exotic meal together.
At least once or twice a month, cook an exotic meal together to learn more about that culture and broaden the family's taste palates. With cooking, children could also learn basic math and language skills and follow procedures, instructions, and methods.
For parents with limited cooking skills, it's these moments when you're trying out something new together that will impact the kids even more. It shows the children that their parents are making an effort to have quality time with them.
