Give everyone a vote when choosing a project.
With everyone in your family busy with school or work, there may be little time left for family time. Rather than having an occasional dinner together, choose a project to do together. Having everyone agree to a set goal will keep the whole family accountable to contributing, and working on an activity together will help you bond.
Volunteering
Choose a cause to support as a family. Have a family meeting to discuss ideas of where you might volunteer. You might devote time to each family member's suggestion or vote on one cause to support. Set aside at least one hour a week to whatever you choose. You might become servers at a soup kitchen or walk dogs at an animal shelter. If you have more time and money, take on a larger project. Adopt a local family in need by cooking meals for them or tutoring their children. Spending time helping the less fortunate will make everyone in your family grateful for what you have.
Garden
Start a garden in your backyard or find a community garden that you can plant in. Visit a garden center together to get advice about plants that grow well in your area. Draw out a plan together of where you'll grow each plant, then draw up a care schedule that shows who's responsible for watering and weeding. When your plants come in, cook a meal together using the produce or herbs you grew.
Genealogy
Tracing your genealogy can be like a treasure hunt, so even children will be interested. Start by drawing out a family tree and writing down all the information you know about your ancestors. Interview other family members to see what they know. Check at the local library to see if any librarians can give you advice on your search. Take a family trip to the local historical society. You can also take a trip to the hometowns of family ancestors to visit their historical societies.
Around the House
Take a walk around the house with the family. Go room by room and make a list of things that need work. You might make note of paint that's peeling, or someone might feel that the couch should be moved to face a different direction. Look for corners that need decoration or flower beds that are wilting. Letting each family member speak up about changes she wants made to her home will get everyone invested in fixing things. Take a trip to the hardware store for supplies, then work together to make minor improvements.
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