SERVE DIY DISHES. Letting the kids “make their own” dinner isn’t just fun, it’s also a godsend if you’re dealing with persnickety palates. Set out an interactive spread one night, such as a taco bar with different fillings (turkey, beef) and toppings (salsa, lettuce, sour cream, cheese, guacamole, and so on) or soup with various additions (think steamed veggies, cooked noodles, shredded meats, and canned beans). They’ll love the chance to be creative.
THROW A PICNIC PARTY. Sure, you can dress up your dinner table—but why not move dinner to another room altogether? A living-room picnic is a good change of pace. Set out a big blanket on the floor, garnish it with pillows and a floral centerpiece, and gather the gang around. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy an indoor dining adventure.
PLAY GAMES. Games are a great way to get everyone talking. Here’s an easy, inexpensive idea: Write down a bunch of whimsical questions (such as “What cartoon character would you be?” and “Where would you go if you had all the money in the world?”) on folded pieces of paper, and set them in the center of the table in a big bowl or jar. Go around the table and let everyone pick and take turns answering each question. You may be surprised at what you learn!
HOST RESTAURANT NIGHT. Taking the family to a restaurant can be expensive and a hassle. Bring the restaurant experience home instead: Print a menu and let your kids pick what they’d like for dinner earlier in the day. It doesn’t have to be fancy—maybe sloppy joes or mac-and-cheese—but they’ll feel like they’re getting a special treat. During dinner, play it up. Dress like a waiter, serve with style and formality, and present a pretend bill for the kids to sign.
FEATURE A MOVIE. Once a month, make dinnertime movie time. Move the entire dinner into the family room and screen a family-friendly flick. Serve healthy versions of drive-in classics, like turkey burgers with sweet-potato fries or grilled pizzas with veggies, on trays, and give everyone a little bowl of popcorn as a side. Your kids will think it’s cool—and the film can give you fodder to talk about later.
