Staying inside at home with each other for a prolonged time gets on everyone’s nerves. There are only so many board games, jigsaw puzzles, and family-friendly TV shows to binge watch. If your family needs to get out of a rut, try some of the best sports to play with the whole family.
Backyard Soccer
Small, pop-up, or foldable nets are inexpensive, but you don’t need one. You can set up a “goal” with a large cardboard box, or rig one with a shower curtain and some poles stuck in the ground. A vigorous, friendly game of soccer will get rid of nervous energy and ennui.
Table Tennis
You can transform an ordinary kitchen or dining table into a table tennis table with a tabletop converter. There are many varieties of table tennis tables, from convertible game tables that provide up to three different games, to full-sized versions that form the centerpiece of a basement rec room. Choosing a table tennis table is a matter of space, how you plan to use the table, and budget. A good one can provide family fun for years.
Badminton
The great thing about this backyard game is you can take it inside in the winter. The racquets and the birdies are lightweight, and the family can swat the birdies back and forth just for fun. Clear a space in the living room or basement—but make sure breakable items are stored in a safe place first.
Basketball
Play in the driveway when it’s warm, and change to a small indoor set with soft foam balls in cold or rainy weather. Adjustable height nets are great for smaller kids, and inside, the soft balls shouldn’t cause damage. Competitive games can devolve into roughhousing, so make sure the kids are under supervision while blowing off steam.
Cycling, Hiking, and Walking
When everyone is bouncing off the walls, it’s a good time to get outside. A family bike ride is relaxing and good exercise for everyone. A walk or a trail hike gets everyone moving, out in the fresh air, and away from crowds. Properly dressed for the weather, there’s no reason the family can’t take a walk on a bright winter day when the bikes are in the garage.
These are just a few sports for whole family fun. Backyard softball, baseball, volleyball, and croquet are other options adaptable for small yards and small kids. Play together while you stay together, and everyone will be in a better mood.