How do we make intentional swaps? If you’re used to everyone being on devices, the idea of unstructured time together can feel awkward or overwhelming. This resource was created to help. These aren’t elaborate activities that require planning, money, or special skills. They’re simple, doable ideas that fit into real life.
15 Activities That Take 20 Minutes or Less
- Walk together. Fresh air, side-by-side conversation, and a happy pup. Win-win-win.
- Make smoothies. Let them choose ingredients, blend together, and drink them while chatting about the day.
- Play cards. Go Fish, Uno, Crazy Eights. Simple games, easy laughter.
- Shoot hoops. Even if you’re terrible. Especially if you’re terrible.
- Do a puzzle. Work on a section together. Low pressure, hands busy, conversation flows naturally.
- Bake cookies. From a mix if that’s what you’ve got. It’s the togetherness that matters.
- Dance party in the kitchen. Pick a song, be ridiculous, shake off the day.
- Read aloud. Yes, even with older kids. Take turns reading chapters from a book you both enjoy.
- Draw or color together. Grab paper and colored pencils. No artistic skill required.
- Throw a frisbee or play catch. Movement + conversation = connection magic.
- Have a tea party or hot cocoa date. Sit together with a warm drink. No phones allowed.
- Look at old photos together. Pull up pictures from their younger years. “Remember when…?” stories guaranteed.
- Play a quick board game. Sequence, Connect Four, Jenga. Fast, fun, and face-to-face.
- Teach them something new. Show them how to change a tire, fold a fitted sheet, or make your signature dish.
- Sit outside and stargaze. Lay on a blanket, look up, talk about big questions or nothing at all.
- Add others for your family. You know your interests and hobbies best.
