No internet, no PlayStation, no Netflix, no social media. Ahhh, the 80’s and 90’s – the good old days. From Webster and Diff’rent Strokes to Saved by the Bell and Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. There were game nights and movie nights, and time we just spent together as a family.

Hasbro conducted a study a few years back that showed 91% of participants felt that game night improved their family’s mood, while 96% said they feel more connected when playing games together. The report also included a few tips on how to make sure you make the most of your family game night, like scheduling it in and make sure it’s a game or activity that everyone will enjoy.

Somewhere between Y2K and now we lost track of the importance of family time. Smartphones and tablets, streaming services, and binge-watching, it’s all become too much to compete with.

If your family is up for a little retro-action, here are some family bonding activities you’ll want to add to the calendar on the fridge.

The Family That Eats Together

For those with older kids in the house, it may be difficult getting everyone to sit down together for dinner (or any other meal!). For those with younger children, you maybe be working on a nighttime schedule to get them to be at a certain time. In either case, make sure everyone is aware and excited about the family meal. Add it to the calendar, talk about it leading up the big day, and ask for people’s meal and beverage suggestions.

For some families, this might be a weekend breakfast or lunch, depending on your schedules. One awesome way to get everyone involved is a meal prep kit. It takes the planning out of meal prep and it’s something you can all do together. Or, stock up on grocery gift cards for everything you need. Grocery delivery from INABUGGY.com is extra convenient for the busy family.

The Family That Plays Together

Family night can be all about the games. Board games like Monopoly, Clue, Operation have a fun, retro feel but are also a great way to disconnect from the technology around us. If you can’t (or won’t) put down the smartphones, you’ve got plenty of options! We love the games Head’s Up and Speak Out. Have a Nintendo Wii collecting dust? Brush it off and show the kids how fun Mario Cart can be!

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s age-appropriate and everyone will enjoy playing. For more buy-in from the family, we recommend crowd-sourcing ideas and randomly drawing one for each family night – that way, everyone’s happy! Plus, it keeps things fun and interesting.

You can find games from Chapters-Indigo and HearthSong, or grab a Mastermind Toys gift card.

The Family That Binges Together

How about a movie marathon or TV shows you can binge together? From Disney+ to Amazon Prime you’ll have to suit everyone. The only rule is that there are no rules! Except making sure everyone has fun. Oh, and don’t forget the popcorn and snacks.

“I love spending time at home with my 3-year-old and my husband, especially watching movies. Right now, it’s all about Frozen 2! We’ve seen it – I don’t know how many times but love the way our son enjoys it like it’s always the first time!”
– Isabel, Graphic Designer

The Family That Crafts Together

How about having a family crafting party? Or an at-home family-style Paint Nite? Check out parenting magazines, follow us on Pinterest for lots and lots (and lots) of inspiration and ideas. Whatever you choose, be sure to plan it ahead of time so you can shop for everything you need.