our
articles

The Family Who Plays Together Stays Together

✱ TINA MICKELSON of Chico, Calif., mom to WYATT, 8, and JACK, 6, discovered the joy of de-stressing family life last fall. Before that, her sons’ constant activities left Mickelson feeling disconnected. Now the kids have cut back to one activity, one day a week. “They get their homework done without a fuss, play games while I make dinner, and read to each other at bedtime,” says Tina. “We are so connected, it’s amazing.”

✱ After dinner, many families scatter to computer screens, televisions and texting. But not CHRIS NEWBOUND and his 15-year-old daughter HAILEY of Williamstown, Mass.: Once or twice a week, the duo heads to nearby squash courts for some lively matches. “Squash gives us a reason to spend time doing something healthy we both enjoy,” says Chris. I appreciate being able to eek out a few more years of

hanging out together.”

✱ For the past three years, LISA MADDEN TUCKER of Falmouth, Maine, has had a book group with her

younger daughter, ANNIE, 11, and another mother-daughter duo. The families alternate hosting, with the daughters leading the discussion. The group has transformed the girls from reluctant readers into avid

ones, and given mothers and daughters common ground. “A day hardly passes without Annie and me reminiscing about a past book and ﬁnding a connection with our daily life,” Tucker says. Other options: Play tennis or golf together, or take a craft- making class as a group.

✱ On warm Wisconsin evenings, SHANNON PAYETTE SEIP, husband ROGER and their kids ISAAC, 5, and BINI, 3, have “front porch picnics.” Everyone loads up dinner on a tin pie plate and heads out to the front steps for a family dinner. “We have a great time and the boys love it,” says Shannon. “It’s free of distractions and I’m literally on their level. Plus, it keeps the dining room clean!” she says. Afterward, the foursome takes an after-dinner stroll down to the local pier.

first appeared: 6/8/2010