On a recent plane ride that included a decent TV selection I happened across Hollywood Game Night hosted by Jane Lynch. 

It’s hysterical! If you haven’t seen it, the show is a throwback to old-school game night, like what you might imagine happening on Friday night at the Tanner’s home (of Full House fame).

Here’s why I love it: It’s simple fun. Yes, there are some bells and whistles (and celebrity twists), but the essential amusement stems from something much more fundamental: gathering together and playing games.

What were the bonding activities that you did with your family as a child? I remember playing cards for hours at the kitchen table with my grandmother. I can picture the jigsaw puzzles on the dining room table that would take my mom and my sister weeks to finish. When I started having sleepovers I would stay up late with friends playing cribbage and laughing.

These were all uncomplicated bonding moments that are now cherished memories.

This kind of simple entertainment is not as common in homes today as it once was. When you look at the school schedule, given how many holidays and school vacations there are, isn’t it silly that more families don’t include joyful activities on the schedule?

It doesn’t have to be this way. You don’t have to wait for a special occasion to bring everyone in your family together. (Click to Tweet)

Knowing how valuable these activities were for me and my network inspires me to suggest that you start a game-night tradition in your family! You’ll find that simple, interact-based games provide a wonderful opportunity to bond with your loved ones.

Here’s how:

1) Pick a night when you can be together for a few hours without technology or interruptions

2) Select an activity that is not elaborate and takes minimal work (I bet you know plenty but here are some suggestions: card games (Rummy, Go Fish, Crazy 8s, etc.), Monopoly, checkers, dominoes, Jenga, Headbandz, Rummikub, Chutes and Ladders — the list is endless!)

Voila! Family bonding ensues.

Celebrate being a family and create the time to bond together. Schedule it, look forward to it, and then reminisce about it. It goes a long way!!

Insight Into Action

Parents and Teachers: What is one non-technological game that you can teach to small beings?

Feedback? Thoughts? Comments? Leave ‘um below or email me at: [email protected].

With a little help we can all grow. If a special person in your life can use this information, then please forward this blog.

For more helpful behavior information delivered straight to your inbox every Tuesday, sign up below.