We live in an era where everyone is occupied with their phones. And it’s the new norm. It might have opened new opportunities and doors to new friendships, but it has taken away the connection with family. And that’s why I’m here today with online activities that you can do as a family.
No matter how busy we are or become in the future, we should never forget to keep the bond strong between family members. Remember, when no one was there, your family stood by you. And they won’t hesitate to do it again.
So, let my guide be your way to strengthen your bond with other family members.
Karaoke Nights
Karaoke might be a dying activity due to increased use of the internet. But you can effectively turn the internet into your very own karaoke bar and have a blast with your family. Songs that everyone knows works as an amazing ice breaker. So, if you’ve been distant with other family members lately, karaoke is a great way to start.
All you have to do is search for the song you want to sing with ‘karaoke’ in the search bar. Whether it’s YouTube or Google, you’ll certainly find a clip to play. Now, it’s time to go wild. Harmonious singing will build unity between you and your family as well as entertain you like never before.
Watch a Movie Together
Most modern movies are created with complex storylines and liberal language which might make you feel like watching them alone. But if you dig deep enough, you’ll find countless classic movies that revolve around families. And what better way to enjoy them than with your family?
If you’re confused with which movies to watch, start with animations. Pixar or Disney create spectacular animation movies that cater to a mass audience. Especially if you have kids in your family, you can effectively include them in the bonding session with animated movies.
Then, you can take suggestions from each member and make a routine for your movie gatherings. For example, you can all get together at the weekend and watch something that gets the most votes! It will allow everyone to participate in the selection process as well.
Digital Board Games
If you thought board games were dead, think again. Even better, search for a digital version of your favourite board games that you always used to play with your family. You’ll definitely find a compatible version with your device.
Now, all is left is to call everyone and round them up. Games like One Deck Dungeon, monopoly, etc. works like a charm for family bonding.
Hold Competitions
Everyone is somewhat competitive. It’s hardcoded into human nature. So, why not utilize the primal instinct and turn it into a fun activity? Select something that everyone can do. For example, a digital art summit will work fine.
You can ask everyone to download their favourite drawing apps and set a time for viewing. It could be a week from now. Or an hour, it totally depends on you and the other members of the family.
Pick a prize to give to the winner as well. This way, the morale between family members will always remain high. Competitions are my favourite online activities to do as a family.
Virtual Tours
You don’t need a ton of money to take your family on tours. All you need is a little motivation from me. I was first introduced to virtual tours during the pandemic and it has opened my third eye. And I suggest it as one of the finest online activities to do as a family to whoever I meet.
Basically, you all gather before a screen and start the tour. You can use 3D or 2D videos, Google Earth, Street View, etc. to virtually go to the location. You can introduce drinks and snacks to make the session even more enjoyable.
Similar to movies, let everyone have their pick. And have a voting session. The location that gets the most vote will be the winner. It’s a very fun and engaging activity that I do almost every weekend.
Play Multiplayer Games
All you need is a working console or a PC to start with. There is a magnitude of games that you can play with offline partners. If you have siblings, these games could be the common language you’ve been looking for.
One drawback of the games is that they’re often not suitable for older people. However, you can use any of the other activities I’ve covered so far with the elderly. And set aside some time this weekend to enjoy yourself with younger members of the family.
Include Faraway Members
If you have family members living afar, it won’t be fair for them to leave them out, would it? So, include them over Zoom! If you’ve been thinking Zoom is only good for official meetings for online classes, you just touched the surface!
Zoom is an amazing tool that you can use for virtually anything. For example, you can connect multiple family members over a game of charades through Zoom! Although you’ll be disconnected after 40 minutes, starting again is only a few clicks away.
Attend Virtual Concerts
You couldn’t manage tickets to the concert for everyone. So, what? It’s no biggie. Almost all major concerts get virtual coverage now. And it’s a great way to bond with different generations of family members through different genres of concerts.
Just keep an eye out for the next concert. Once you have a confirmed date, let everyone know so that they can keep time aside. All there is left for you and your family to be reunited and enjoy the concert together.
Wrapping Up
The internet is an infinite source of entertainment if you know where to look. It applies to both your individual and family needs. Besides my list, I’m sure that you’ll manage to find other activities that are way more fun. I’ve just pointed you in the right direction.
Photo by John Schnobrich on Unsplash