Family Night: 5 Fun-Filled Nights at Home

Looking for some weeknight activities to share with your family? Let each room in your home be an inspiration—and a backdrop—for your next night of fun. Try these activity ideas and make weeknights a time for you and your kids to learn, grow and make memories together.

1. A night at the bakery

Baking bread is exciting for children, with its uncomplicated recipe and few hands-on steps. It’s also a great opportunity to learn a little science by watching the yeast foam up and seeing the dough double in size. Plus, it gives kids license to be a little bit messy—adding the flour, kneading the dough and beating out the air pockets after it rises. Kids can shape their own loaves, and everyone can enjoy their freshly baked bread.

2. Movie theater night

Make family movie night more like a night at the movies. Build anticipation beforehand with tickets and invitations printed ahead of time. On movie night, rearrange the furniture—bring out some floor cushions so little ones can have their own row up front—and adjust your lighting for that cinematic feel. Stock your concessions stand with individual popcorn bags, candy cups and beverages. When everyone’s settled, queue up an old-timey cartoon short for some pre-show laughs.

3. Indoor camp out

Whether it’s hot, cold, or just rainy outside, indoor camping is fun for kids year-round. Have them help clear an area of your den and pitch a tent, or make your own with some dining chairs and a sheet. Build a faux campfire together with rocks, twigs and Christmas tree lights underneath. Bring out some kebob sticks to “roast” marshmallows, and add graham crackers and chocolate dip to make s’mores. Snuggle up with your pillows and sleeping bags while you share your favorite ghost stories… and don’t forget to take pictures!

4. Stairway fashion show

Your young fashionistas will love the opportunity to show off their most fashionable creations when you turn the staircase into a fashion show runway. Turn on some fun music, string some colored lights and be sure to have the paparazzi ready at the foot of the stairs for a can’t-miss photo op. To make it even more fun, fill a suitcase with random clothing items (and even some kitchenware) and challenge everyone to design their own look.

5. Family game night

Break out the board games, handhelds, and gaming consoles for a family game night that you won’t soon forget. Make dinner an easy one, with finger foods and healthy snacks. Have a dry erase board handy to keep a running tally of the scores, and who’s in the lead. Fun prizes might include gift cards or coupons good for the winner’s favorite dinner.