Remember when we were young and how simple things would make our day. Whether it was playing with our friends, or solitary games, we knew how to enjoy ourselves. Old fashioned games can still be a wonderful family pastime. Just to get us started, here is a list of things that require little or no investment:
Patterns for doll making, Wood toy making, Jacks, Marbles, Card Games, Corking wool, Kite making and flying, Box lunches, Whittling, Sleigh riding, Collecting nuts, Hiking/walking, Bike riding, Fishing, Picnics, Playing games/board games/card games/musical games, skipping, ball playing, picnicing, musical events such as sing alongs.
Another wonderful time for us as children was the freedom we had compared to these times. On a Saturday, all us children went to the movies and saw two full features, a cartoon, a newsreel and usually a serial. The cost was about 10 cents. Since we can’t do that now, how about a movie night. Just rent a movie each week, make popcorn and have your friends over. Start a movie night club with your friends and take turns.
These are just a few suggestions to get you started. See how many new ideas you can come up with.
May 26th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
Love this concept.Our son attends a Waldorf school and this has really helped us see the benefits of simple play and allowing ourself “do nothing days.” My son is 12 and his wooden block set (real wooden blocks–lots of shapes)still get pulled out and played with, we take the same route on a walk several times during the week and always marvel at the changes that occur during that “same walk.” Trees bud, house’s get painted, flowers blossom. Activities that are both free and fun. Thanks for reminding me that some of our best family times are in fact free.