Jam-Packed with Fun, Engaging Activities for the Whole Family - "Frugal Family Fun" by Amanda Mawhinney is a Must Have Book!

The author opens this book by introducing readers to what frugal is and why it’s so important to not only families, but to a variety of other groups. After all, states the author, the tips and suggestions contained in Frugal Family Fun can easily be used by churches, scout troupes, teachers and other group organizers. Right from the start Ms. Mawhinney had me hooked because the book is already promised to be a multi-purpose tool!

Every step is geared toward bonding together in a fun way. And, bonding together as a family or like-minded group builds stronger relationships and who doesn’t want that? The author’s suggestion of making the first activity fun by creating a list of ideas complete with interactive props along with a budget is excellent. This is a great way to get everyone onboard. It also provides a teachable moment with children about finances. There’s that multi-purpose aspect again!

There are ideas for every age group in this book. The author emphasizes the importance of getting all members of the group involved. There’s a generous section on taking special needs and challenges into consideration, which I found to be valuable.  

From there, the author includes specific fun activities that are designed for specific purposes. Things like team-building, crafting, cooking, role-play, gardening, woodworking, stargazing, nature hiking, puppetry and so much more are included in great detail. There are things to do together outdoors or indoors, during the day or at night, and during any season of the year. In fact, this book is so packed with fun activities you’ll probably never hear those dreaded words, “there’s nothing to do” again. I love, love, love that the author devoted a full chapter to volunteering. It’s so important to make good stewards of our children as early as possible.

The author’s writing style is conversational, easy-going and engaging. She was definitely able to motivate me to try several of her ideas already! I highly recommend Frugal Family Fun to parents, teachers, caregivers and group leaders!

5 of 5 Stars, Review by Susan Barton

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. 

Family Dinner Conversation Starters

 

With so many families living hectic lives, on conflicting schedules, it's difficult to find the time to sit down and have meaningful conversation. Coming together as a family at the end of the day allows families to discuss the day's events, catch up on each other's lives, bring up possible issues with school and work and enjoy the company of family members. Family dinner conversations can give family members a great deal of insight into relationships, personalities and general family dynamics.

Compile Some Conversation Starters

Most conversation among family members comes naturally. But there are times when you might need a bit of prompting. Creating conversation starters helps dialogue begin and continue smoothly.

Designate a weekend to create, as a family, a conversation starter box. Purchase an index card file box and index cards. Give each family member a few cards and have them write down some conversation topic ideas. Young children can draw pictures or have adults help with spelling and writing. Decorate the outside of the box with stickers, rhinestone, glitter, etc.

Conversation Starter Subject Ideas

It's always interesting to know how other people see you. A good way to do this is through reverse role play. Pick a family member and switch roles. Moms and dads will gain insight into how their children view them and the same will be true for the children. Just be sure to refrain from excessive teasing. You're going for an atmosphere of good-natured ribbing and fun.

Some other fun conversation starters to choose might be:

• What famous athlete would you like to be?
• If you could change one rule at school, work or home, what would it be?
• If you could be any age, what age would you be?

Taking Turns Can Be Fun

To avoid the problem of everyone trying to talk at the same time, members should take turns. A fun way to do this is by using a hat, talking stick or other unique item that shows whose turn it is. To make it more interesting, decorate the hat or talking stick together. For example, you can use pins, patches or fish hooks for hats. And decorate sticks with feathers, leather cord and bells.

Some Additional Tips

Creating the right atmosphere at dinner time is important and will be conducive to family conversation. Turning off cell phones, televisions and other electronic equipment eliminates distractions and allows family members to concentrate on conversation.