Lisa Conway – FLORIDA TODAY
Q: I’m stressing. Do you have any ideas for multi-generational family gatherings?
A: The holidays are such a special time of year! Families come together to celebrate traditions, share meals, and enjoy each other’s company. However, planning activities for children, teens, adults and senior adults can be a challenge. To keep various family members from staring at their phones, it helps to focus on experiences that spark creativity, encourage teamwork, and promote connection across generations. Let’s explore a few festive ideas. 
Baking and Cooking Together
Nothing brings people together quite like food. Holiday baking lets everyone get in the act—whether it’s children decorating cookies, grandparents sharing family recipes, or adults handling the more complex tasks. The result? Delicious treats and an opportunity to share stories and traditions that may otherwise be forgotten.
Family Game Nights
Board games, card games, or even simple trivia contests can provide hours of entertainment for the whole family! Choosing games with easy-to-understand rules ensures that younger family members can participate while still being fun for adults. Classics like charades, Pictionary, or holiday-themed bingo can bring a lot of laughter.
Crafting Projects
Arts and crafts encourage creativity across generations. Making homemade ornaments, designing holiday cards, or even creating simple wreaths can be enjoyable for children while offering adults a chance to slow down and relax. Often, the most treasured keepsakes – are homemade.
Storytelling and Movie Nights
Sharing stories is a powerful way to connect as a family. Experiences from the past are recounted and photo albums are cracked open (often to the amazement of the younger set). A holiday movie marathon or photo slide show is a perfect way to bring everyone together.
Volunteering as a Family
The holidays are also about giving back. Volunteering, donating toys, or helping a neighbor in need can teach children the value of generosity while strengthening family bonds. These experiences often leave a lasting impression on everyone involved.
Outdoor Adventures
When weather permits, spending time outdoors can be invigorating for all ages. Taking a holiday lights walk is a fun way to enjoy the season. A simple stroll around the neighborhood to admire decorations can be magical when done as a family.
Making Memories Together
You might be saying to yourself: “You don’t know MY family.” Yes, all families are different, but the key is to plan activities with broad appeal for shared enjoyment. Whether it’s baking cookies, playing games, crafting ornaments, or giving back to the community, experiences are more than just entertainment—they become lasting memories.
For a look at activities planned in Viera and Altamonte Springs, visit OneSeniorPlace.com/events.
Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and Certified Care Manager for One Senior Place Care Management, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
