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Want to make lasting family memories that you will all treasure forever? This Friday night, instead of the usual rush to have a healthy dinner, get the homework done, and the kids to bed at a decent time, why not plan a fun family night instead? It’s easier than you might think and it’s full of the simple joys of being together as a family.
Sound good? Here’s how to plan the perfect family night in:
- Dress Code: Comfort Is King
If someone shows up in jeans, they’re doing it wrong. Family night in means stretchy pants, fuzzy socks, and the kind of sweatshirt that may or may not be older than your youngest child. Bonus points for themed pajamas or a full-on onesie situation. Think less fashion, more blanket burrito.
- Snack Like You Mean It
No one wants to pause a movie for carrot sticks. This is not a health retreat. Popcorn, candy, chips, and something chocolatey should all be within arm’s reach. You could even set up a DIY snack bar. Throw in a little competition—who can make the most over-the-top popcorn mix? No rules, just chaos and sugar.
- Order Pizza, Obviously
Look, we all know the rule: if you’re cooking, it’s not a real night off. Order pizza and let someone else deal with the melted cheese and questionable topping combos. Everyone can customize their slice, and you get to avoid the cleanup war that usually follows “just a quick homemade dinner.” Everyone wins, especially your sanity.
- Set the Scene
Ambience matters, even if it’s just turning down the lights and pretending your living room isn’t a minefield of plastic toys. Grab some throw blankets, dim the lamps, and light a candle if you’re brave. Want to take it further? Build a pillow fort. Kids will love it, and adults can pretend they’re doing it for the kids while secretly enjoying every second.
- Movie, Game, or Both
Whether it’s a classic Disney marathon or a cutthroat round of Uno, pick something the whole family can actually agree on. Rotate who gets to choose each week to avoid a full-scale civil war over the remote. And if your family is truly indecisive, flip a coin and blame the outcome on fate. She’s impartial.
- No Phones Allowed (Except for Pizza Tracking)
Nothing ruins family bonding faster than the glow of ten different screens. Create a little phone-free window so everyone is fully present. The only exception is checking to see how close the pizza guy is to rescuing you from snack-induced mutiny.
- End with a Wind-Down
Once the sugar high fades and someone inevitably gets overtired and dramatic (probably not even a kid), wrap up with a calm activity. Bedtime stories, mellow music, or just lying in a pile of blankets like satisfied sloths. Consider it a gentle landing back into reality.
The perfect family night doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to have you all showing up, having fun together, and making memories you will treasure long after the kids have gone off to college, so make it happen! If all else fails, just order pizza and surrender to the sofa!
