Family members who play, learn, explore, and create together grow stronger—individually and collectively, over time.
What drives family fun and creativity?
In a nutshell, it involves seeking, finding, and then embracing opportunities to be imaginative and original—and being willing to go to the next level—doing what family members choose to do, whether independently, or collaboratively!
There are loads of opportunities for family fun and creative expression. But here’s the thing. You don’t have to do fancy, flashy, or new-fangled things. Nor do you have to spend a lot of money or be tech-savvy. There are endless possibilities, including tried-and true “old-fashioned” activities, outdoor adventures, and intergenerational experiences. For example, the basic musical scale (CDEFGABC) can empower people of all ages to create melodies, leading to new songs and dances. Words are foundational jumping off points for parents and kids, who can share and combine them and co-create lyrics, poems, jokes, and stories. And, simple arts and crafts supplies are pictures, cards, scrapbooks, and models just waiting to happen.
Welcome ideas, and nurture creative sparks, including ones that may be silly, or scientific, or spontaneous. Observe, listen, reflect, explore, imagine, interact, and enjoy!
How to Strengthen a Curiosity-Driven and Exploratory Dynamic
“In the fabric of life—your fabric—let your family interactions be a silver lining.”
(Ignite Your Ideas, p.65)
Families come in all sorts of sizes and combinations. Like forest paths, cloud formations, lightning bolts, or fingerprints, no two families are alike. And, family members have different interests and areas of strength. Consider, what can you do together? What memories can you make today? (Or tomorrow, or beyond…?)
Why not bake and eat something delicious; laugh and twirl in hula hoops; draw colorful chalk pictures on the sidewalk; or plan and then experience a scavenger hunt? Work on a puzzle, go hiking or biking; have a family craft-fest or triathlon; star gaze; fly a kite; or make homemade tomato sauce or blueberry jam. You can read or share stories; create new games; build a fort; plant a herb or vegetable garden; try wacky experiments; or invent new ways to tackle everyday household chores.
Draw upon the strength of family! Don’t be shy—welcome their input and support. Encourage, reinforce, and take pride in each other’s suggestions and accomplishments. Boost one another’s efforts, especially when there are challenges to overcome or while navigating uncertainties. Learn, create, and have fun together. Families fuelled by collective optimism, play, bonding, commitment, and love are stronger for it.
Practical Suggestions
Each family unit is a constellation that represents an important cohesive support network for developing ideas, enjoying activities, and engaging in creative expression—together. Here are some practical ways family members can nurture one another’s creativity and growth, and make lasting memories:
- Strive to promote life balance—including a daily mix of calm, busyness, play, rest, and appropriate and moderate screen-time.
- Appreciate individual differences—recognize and respect each person’s uniqueness. Tap into their brainpower, resourcefulness, and energy.
- Be proactive—take initiative, for example, by building upon achievements, and finding exciting new experiences to try out together.
- Stay open to possibilities—including alternative perspectives, explorations, and inquiry.
The bottom line: Strengthen connections with those whom you love and trust!
