What is a family without family activities and time spent together? We all need it, because without it we become burnt out by the pressures of life and our relationships are strained. All too often though, we are tricked into believing that we need to spend money in order to have family fun. The marketers are always telling us that we need to buy this that or another thing in order to accomplish something that has been done in the past for free.

Obviously, it's better to start with the free activities when your kids are little. If your kids are accustomed to dinners out and paid activities, then it will be harder to win them over but not impossible. If you put your foot down (maybe only in your head) and arrange other activities, they'll have fun and learn to appreciate simply spending time together as a family.

During nicer weather, simple things to do could include visiting a park or beach, taking a walk, or even hiking. Playing frisbee or kicking a ball to each other are some options as well. You can even explore plants and insects, draw sketches of what you see, people watch, or go for a swim if the weather is nice enough.

On dreary days, you'll need to be more creative, but you can still find fun at home. Here are some suggestions for indoor activities to help you get started: cook a special meal together, bake, play board games or cards, piece together jigsaw puzzles, rent free movies from the library, make a tent in your living room, wrestle, have tea parties, enjoy homemade play dough, etc.

When you really want to go out in the winter there are a few things that you might try. Try bundling up and going for a walk or hike despite the weather. Clearly the success of this will depend on the personalities of your family. It's worth a try though. You can also do an internet search for free activities in your area. Another idea is to take advantage of your library. When you really need to get out in the winter, try taking a family trip to the library. This may not be time spent playing together but it is a way to get out of the house and it’s free. Try helping your kids explore some topics that interest them rather then just heading off on your own.

I think that one of the most helpful things to do is just be willing to play. Adults often forget how to play and I think that this can make it difficult for them to relate to their children. Join in their imaginary games. Explore life with them. Be silly. No one is going to think poorly of you for being silly with your kids. Try to relax and genuinely have fun with your kids. Even little kids can see through feigned, half focused attention. Throw yourselves into the fun. It's not a waste of time and is one of the most rewarding things you can do with yourself. It really is worth it.