Spending time together as a family doesn’t have to mean expensive outings or complicated planning. Some of the best memories come from simple, creative activities you can do right at home. If you're looking for family time ideas that bring everyone together, spark creativity, and don’t require a big budget, I’ve got you covered!

As an artist (and as someone who has recently started homeschooling their own son), I naturally lean toward creative activities because they give everyone a chance to express themselves. Even the least “artsy” family members always surprise me. Whether it’s painting, sketching, or playing games that stretch your imagination, these ideas make for quality family time while encouraging self-expression.

So, let’s dive into some of my favorite family time ideas that are easy, fun, and guaranteed to bring your family closer together!

1. Watercolor Painting Together

You knew this one was coming, right? Watercolor is such a fun, relaxing way to bond as a family. The best part? There’s no pressure to be “good” at it—just play with colors, let the paint flow, and enjoy the process.

If your family loves following tutorials, my Everyday Watercolor Companion Course is a great way to paint together. Everyone can follow along at their own pace, and since we all learn differently, having structured lessons makes it easy for beginners and experienced painters alike to enjoy the experience.

Watercolor painting is a perfect family time idea because:

• It’s low-cost—all you need are paints, brushes, and paper.
• There’s no right or wrong way to do it, so even little kids can join in.
• It encourages creativity, patience, and mindfulness (which we all could use more of).

To make it extra fun, try picking a theme—paint flowers, sunsets, or even let each family member create their own mini masterpiece to display at home! 

Feeling stuck on where to start? I have tons of step-by-step tutorials on my YouTube channel to spark some inspiration!

2. Nature Walks and Sketching

Sometimes, the best family time ideas happen outside. A simple walk in nature can be a great way to slow down, enjoy the fresh air, and take in the beauty around you. But to make it even more special, bring a small sketchbook along!

While you're outside, each family member can sketch something that catches their eye—a flower, a tree, or even a tiny bug on a leaf. (And no, you don’t need to be an expert at drawing for this—just have fun with it!) 

Nature walks and sketching are a great way to:

• Get outside and unplug from screens for a bit (we could all benefit from this!).
• Practice observation skills and appreciation for details.
• Create little keepsakes from each walk that you can look back on.

Plus, you never know—this could turn into a new family tradition!

If you’re unsure where to start, check out my How to Sketch a Basic Flower tutorial for an easy beginner-friendly exercise.

3. DIY Art Projects 

Another one of my favorite family time ideas is diving into DIY art projects together. Whether it’s making handmade cards, painting flower pots, or even creating a family mural on a big sheet of paper, there’s something magical about making art as a group. Everyone gets to add their own touch, and the final piece becomes a fun, collaborative keepsake.

If you need a little creative boost, my Creativity Playbook is packed with ideas to get you started! It’s designed to help you break free from creative blocks, making it perfect for families who want to explore art together.

And if art isn’t everyone’s thing, that’s okay—because creativity doesn’t stop at painting! 

4. Make Music Together

This brings me to another huge passion of mine: music. Music has been a big part of my life since I was little. I grew up writing songs, playing instruments, and finding so much joy in the process of creating music. Now, as I continue to dive deeper into songwriting and production, I’m realizing (more than ever) just how truly powerful music is—not just for self-expression, but for bringing people together.

That’s why making music as a family is one of my favorite family time ideas. And it doesn’t have to be complicated or require expensive instruments. 

Here are some fun ways to incorporate music into your family time:

1. Write a Song Together: It can be silly, heartfelt, or completely random—just have fun coming up with lyrics and a melody. (And don’t worry if it doesn’t sound “perfect.” The best songs come from just playing around!)
2. Have a Mini Karaoke Night: Pick some favorite songs, grab a pretend (or real) microphone, and let loose. Singing together is a great way to bond and build confidence.
3. Make Your Own Instruments: Try making shakers out of rice and empty bottles or creating a drum set from pots and pans. It’s a fun way to explore rhythm and sound.
4. Learn an Instrument Together: If you have a piano, guitar, or any other instrument at home, take turns playing simple melodies or even composing your own short piece.

Music is such a universal form of creativity, and the best part? It’s something you can enjoy at any age. Whether you're playing, singing, or just dancing around the room, music has a way of turning everyday moments into something special.

5. Game Night (With a Creative Twist!)

Game night is always a win, but instead of just sticking to the usual board games, why not add a creative spin? Some of the best family time ideas involve games that stretch your imagination, encourage laughter, and get everyone thinking outside the box.

Here are a few of my personal favorites:

• Pictionary: Draw a word or phrase and have the family guess (bonus points for the most hilarious drawings).
• Charades: Act out different prompts and see who has the best dramatic flair.
• Storytelling Games: Take turns adding a sentence to a story and see where it goes—it’s always entertaining!

These games are not only fun but also help build quick thinking, communication, and teamwork (all great life skills, if you ask me!).

Make Creativity a Regular Part of Family Time!

The best family time ideas don’t have to be complicated or expensive. What matters most is being present, having fun, and creating memories together. Whether you're painting a colorful masterpiece, sketching flowers on a nature walk, crafting something unique, or playing games that stretch your imagination, these moments bring families closer in a way that screens and busy schedules just can't.

Plus, when you make space for creativity in your family’s routine, you’re encouraging problem-solving, self-expression, and the ability to think outside the box (all skills that last a lifetime!).

So, which of these family time ideas are you most excited to try? Connect with me on Instagram, I’d love to hear how your family is getting creative together!