When you think of family traditions, what probably comes to mind is stuff like how you celebrate birthdays and holidays, fun stuff you do on vacation, or the annual trip to Grandma's house. Some families like to watch TV or movies together, but spending a lot of time sitting in front of a screen is bad for your health — and that's before we even start talking about all those unhealthy snacks you tend to eat on the couch!

How about starting a new family tradition of volunteering together as a family? During the holiday season many organizations need extra help, but this can be a year-round activity too.

Volunteering Ideas

Ways in which you and your family can volunteer, include:

  • Signing up for a special fundraiser for a cause you want to support.
  • Serving meals at the soup kitchen.
  • Assembling toiletry packages for people at the local homeless shelter.
  • Helping an elderly neighbor with house or yard chores.

You get the idea! Find something that everyone will enjoy doing for a few hours together. Not only will you be giving back, but you'll get to spend quality time as a family — without having to fight for the remote.​