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10 Fun Family Activities to Enjoy at Home During Stay-at-Home Times

Staying home doesn't have to be boring. With busy schedules like remote work and helping kids with homework, carving out time for fun is essential. As a family that's navigated these periods ourselves, we've compiled this list of engaging home activities in partnership with Colorland's #stayhome campaign. Building on our earlier post about beating boredom, here are more ideas to make the most of your time together.

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10 Fun Things to Do at Home

These proven activities, drawn from our family's real experiences, show how staying home can strengthen bonds and spark joy.

1. Cook and simmer a new recipe together

Take advantage of extra time to prepare slow-cooked dishes you rarely make. Involve the kids in chopping and stirring – it's a hands-on way to teach cooking skills and introduce new flavors. We've seen kids become fans when they help create the meal. More inspiration follows below.

2. Bring the picnic indoors

Transform your living room into a picnic spot with a rug and a tipi tent for extra fun. Enjoy lunch or your family-cooked meal in this cozy setup. It creates an instant warm atmosphere everyone loves.

3. Create a photo album or relive old memories

Dust off old slides for a nostalgic family viewing – we hosted one with my father two years ago, and it was unforgettable. No slides? Use this time to build a digital photo album online via Colorland. Kids often love pitching in.

4. Get creative with DIY crafts

Fill spare moments with hands-on projects like bird crafts, cardboard creations, or summer-themed activities. Check our detailed blogs for step-by-step ideas we've tested ourselves.

5. Host a family karaoke night

Karaoke tops our list – my husband Frank accompanied our daughter Lotte on piano and guitar for 'Sweet Child of Mine' last week. It's endlessly entertaining for all ages.

6. Try a food challenge with the kids

Kids adore these playful taste tests. Use fruit, herbs, and sauces on spoons to explore flavors without waste – a clever way to expand their palates.

7. Enroll in an online course

Expand skills with free courses on platforms offering programming, WordPress, drawing, and more. It's the perfect time to learn something new together.

8. Play educational online games

Smartgames offers free 6-month membership with logic puzzles and challenges. Sign up as a family, track scores, and turn it into a friendly competition.

9. Tackle jigsaw puzzles

With over 1,000 options available, puzzles are a relaxing hit – half of the Netherlands is hooked right now. Our family saves them for holidays, but they're ideal anytime. Try kid-friendly jigsaw puzzles for shared fun.

10. Dust off the shuffleboard

Resurrect that classic shuffleboard for boys vs. girls or parents vs. kids matches. It's simple, nostalgic, and promotes quality family time.