Having the family together under one roof for the holidays can be amazing. But if everyone is glued to their phones instead of spending quality time together, what can you do? Bringing all the generations together and getting everyone to put their phones down can happen, with a little effort.
These are some helpful tips for bridging the digital divide this holiday season:
- Let the games begin - Want to get everyone unplugged? A captivating board game or the latest hilarious card game can get the whole family involved. A new puzzle or arts and crafts project could also be part of your holiday game night.
- Host a spa night - You could become the favorite child/parent/cousin or aunt by having a spa night for everyone. We could all use a little self-care during the busy holidays, so treat your loved ones to some face masks, foot soaks and festive nail polish. Make it a pajamas-only party and don’t forget the snacks.
- Have some movie marathons - With all the holiday movies on TV this time of year, there’s really something for everyone. You could do one movie night that’s focused on animated and family classics, like “A Christmas Story” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” then another night that’s all about the laughs with comedies like “Elf” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” And you could dedicate one night to classics, like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street.”
- Go check out the lights - Pile everyone in the car and drive around to look at all the festive lights displays in your area. If you’re feeling really ambitious, you could even create a scavenger hunt and split up into teams to see who can find all the items on the list, like a house with all blue lights or “Star Wars” decorations or a “joy” sign.
- Get in the kitchen - One of the best ways to celebrate the holidays together is by sharing your favorite food. Recreate some of your favorite recipes with your kids or have different family members team up and be in charge of dinner for the night. You could also have a cookie contest or build gingerbread houses together, if you’re feeling motivated. And the best part is, everyone won’t be sitting around staring at and scrolling on their phones.
Source: Bustle
Photo: Getty Images