Putting some really good ‘family time’ together in the spring and summer months always feels less challenging than it does at this time of year. The hectic mornings, rushed dinners, chaotic swimming lessons and homework doesn’t leave very much time for the most important time, ‘family time.’ Here are some activities we use to grab some quick ‘family time’ during these hectic months.
If you haven’t tried the game Spot It by Blue Orange Games you really should. Recognized for the 
exceptional play value it offers, this game just won a 2012 Gold Star Award from Neighbourhood Toy Stores of Canada (NETS). A game of visual endurance it is rated for children 7+. However my five year-old twins have no problem playing and enjoy frequent wins. The game consists of a deck of round cards that have numerous images on them including a tree, an apple and a purple hand to name a few. It is a wonderful equalizing game that puts the kids on the same level or above the adults. Great confidence builder ($16.99).
Quick craft ideas are sometimes all that we have time for. Botanical Cuts from 
Roylco are amazing. They are pre-cut paper leaves, stems and flowers that you can bend to become 3D. You can turn them into unique cards for birthday parties. They also make unique placemats by sandwiching the greenery between 2 sheets of clear contact paper. My oldest son Jaiden has taken a great interest in drying real flowers and leaves and is designing items using the paper cuts mixed with a natural touch ($9.99 for a package of 210 pieces).
Another idea is to set up a card table in the middle of the living room with lots of room on each side so even the little ones can squeeze in. 
Cobble Hill Puzzles from Outset Media makes amazing family puzzles with three different-sized pieces so that all ages can get involved—with bigger pieces for little hands and smaller pieces for older kids. We leave the table set up and work on the puzzle whenever we can. Very satisfying but always a contest to see who gets to put in the last piece. Although I never seem to win. We have a few puzzles and we rotate through them ($19.99).
Life seems to get busier and busier even when I do everything I can do to slow down. The best thing in the world is the half hour when we slow down and enjoy each other. If crafts and games are not your thing you can always cuddle up with a blanket and a book. Or in our case a pile of blankets, a pile of books (one each) and the usual boy humour. Enjoy!
Angela Field is the owner of Tradewind Imports (Toys & Gifts) a member of Neighbourhood Toy Stores of Canada (NETS) and an active and slightly crazy mother of four little boys. She has been in retail for over 15 years and has increased her toy lines with the arrival of her boys and the knowledge they have imparted. The boys, along with relatives, and other kids in the community are an active part in her toy testing. Angela’s motto is “I won’t sell it if I don’t believe in it.”
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