6 Ways to Bond With Your Family Over the Holidays

This season is pretty much synonymous with family if you ask me. Growing up, Christmas was a big deal and we love to go all out for each other and have our special traditions that we stick to.

Not gonna lie, I get SUPER excited about gift exchanges, but this holiday really isn’t about material things. What matters is getting some rest and kicking back with family.

This year will mark the first time (due to scheduling conflicts and expensive flights) that I don’t spend it with my immediate family. So, I’m vicariously living through the rest of y’all as I give suggestions on how to make the most of this time with your loved ones. If you’re blessed enough to get that quality time, don’t take it for granted – it’s the most important thing above all this season!

That’s why today I’m sharing some ideas for making the most of that time. Don’t just waste it away looking at your iPhone, have some fun together!

1. Go to the Movie Theater on Christmas Day

Almost every year my entire family goes to the movie theatre on the evening of Christmas day. Since it’s one of the few places actually open, it’s a nice way to get out if you feel a little stir crazy from being in the house all day. And, how often do you go to the movies with your parents or in a big group? It’s actually a lot of fun!

2. MAKE a movie

This could just be the film minor in me, but I think it’d be fun to make a home movie together! Why not record little aspects of your time together during the holidays, edit, and then email to everyone after you all go your separate ways? Its a nice way to remember your time together.

Or, if you have a family with a sense of humor – you could make comedy skits (remember the Vine days?) or just perform them in front of each other off camera and judge who’s is the best!

3. Play Games

I think this one is a given that we all do – bust out the board games! Its been awhile since I’ve done this personally but whenever we take the time to do it, I’m always full of joy afterwards. It’s a great way to break the ice and get the laughter going if you have non-family members in attendance as well.

Even if you don’t have any board games, you can still have some fun with this. I like to google funny/weird “would you rather” questions/quizzes to ask my family. You’d be surprised what mom/dad have to say sometimes and you might learn something new about them!

4. Ask Each Other Questions You’ve Never Asked Before

I’m that annoying person that likes to start conversations about nothing all the time. (Which is why I like playing “Would You Rather” so much 😂) Last year out of nowhere, I asked my dad if he could remember a favorite toy he received as a Christmas gift and I loved his answer! He said he got a little dancing monkey (I think he was referring to this?) and he thought it was the coolest technology in the world at the time! My mother said her favorite gift was a Raggedy Ann doll.

I know we all get tired of those “back in my day” stories, but this was a story I was in control of – I was the one asking the questions about topics I wanted to know about, and I loved seeing their faces light up while being “interviewed.” It was a cute moment where I saw my parents in a different light – I imagined them as innocent little kids on Christmas morning once upon a time in their life. Again, I learned something new about them, and they seemed flattered that I was interested.

5. Pamper Yourselves At Home

Why not bust out some masks while you’re chilling at home? Or, skip a trip to the nail salon and do your own manicures/pedicures together at the house? I always do this with my family while we watch a movie. Dads/brothers are not excluded – they can indulge in some self care too! Speaking of, did I tell you guys that I got my dad to buy a jade roller? He’s so obsessed with his! I even sent one to my sister and I heard it’s been confiscated by her boyfriend as well. 😂

6. Volunteer Together

Looking for a way to give back this season? It’s much more fun and meaningful as a group! I’ve always wanted to do this with my family. Check out local opportunities in your city to volunteer at a soup kitchen, pantry, or shelter. If you have kids or young nieces and nephews, you’re teaching them strong values like compassion for others and selflessness. Above everything I’ve mentioned today, it’s the ultimate way to bond, feel closer, and grateful for each other and what you have.