Family in the festive season

If there is one thing that this year’s events have shown us about our family, it’s that we LOVE visiting them. If there is something else it’s taught us about our family, it is definitely that too much of them can be a nightmare (can I get a shout out from all the parents with little kids who were using the ceiling fan as a swing because the playgrounds were closed for AGES!).

​Something that can help, when too many family members under one roof becomes a problem, is having a few interesting ideas to do this festive season. Perhaps, having more of an insight into the brain, stress and all the things that come with ‘too much of a great thing’ can help!

Every year you see lists like ’10 things to do with your kids this holiday,’ or ‘9000 activities to keep to children entertained.’ I’m sure this year will be no different, and here’s why. Keeping the family engaged and active is a GOOD thing. Go to the park, play a board game, talk about your favourite thing of the day at dinner time, around the table, together! Live by yourself? That’s fine! As Eddie would say… “Phone a friend!” (Or family, or even just talk to your bird/dog/cactus!!)
So with that in mind, our top 9 things to do with your family this holiday season are…

1 – Go for a walk.
Everything from a lap of the block to a 3 day hike in the Grampians. You can try Geocaching or play Pokemon Go if the kids (or partner) really want to, but try and do it screen free.

2 – Board games.
Ah the classic board game, great for all ages and stages. For the littlies, tic tac toe, for the competitive, checkers and for those that don’t really like their family/friends, Monopoly (don’t worry, you won’t know them for much longer!)

3 – Play favourite things.
So simple this one, and a beautiful way to introduce a bit of gratitude into your world. Anyone else sick of saying “What did you do today?” and hearing a sullen “Nothing,” back? Well, flip it, say “What was your favourite thing today?” Works so much better, it’s relative so there’s always something that was their favourite.

4 – Have a dance party.
Works a treat to entice kids to eat a bit faster or try that veggie. Chuck on some music, do some popcorn, set out the carrot + dips (and yes some chippies and have a fizzy drink – try komboucha or soda water maybe?) a dance till they drop and go to sleep. Win, win!

5 – Trivia!
This has been a personal favourite during the lockdowns. We’ve jumped on Zoom, read the paper’s trivia (or used numerous free apps) and just had fun with it.

6 – Ball games!
Hand eye coordination is a must when it comes to upskilling the brain. Not keen on sports? That’s ok, try downball or even juggling (Flour in a balloon, make sure you use 3 layers of balloon so your house doesn’t look like it’s been snowing inside! Festive, yes, but a pain to clean up!)

7 – Do some cooking.
Who doesn’t love muffins and cookies? Well, your waistline, but shhhh! Maybe try something a bit fancy? A Thai banquet (stir fry + pad thai is easy, or you can go full on with… well, fancy stuff).

8 – Bubbles!!!!
Always a favourite, and have you seen how dogs go nuts over bubbles too? Hours of entertainment. Kids might like them too!

9 – Get your family’s spines checked!
Going to a chiro is a great way to keep the conversation about better health and wellness going, keep yourselves moving well and promote a healthier lifestyle!

Heaps of ways to promote physical, chemical and emotional wellbeing, all whilst keeping the family entertained! From our family to yours, we wish you a happy and safe festive season, whatever that may look like this year.