The family that hobbies together, stays together

Between soccer games, choir practice, office overtime and conference calls, getting the family to sit down to dinner once or twice a week can feel like a major accomplishment -- and a near impossibility.

Finding extra-curricular activities that the whole family can try together may be a challenge but the results are definitely worth it. The key to creating an ongoing hobby is finding something that doesn't take an extreme effort and that everyone enjoys -- think food, art, nature or whatever your family members love best.

To help you get start up your own group project time, here are a few ideas for family-friendly hobbies and activities.

Scrapbooking
Take all those ticket stubs, flyers and souvenirs out of the junk drawer and work together to turn pack-rat tendencies into great memories by creating a scrapbook, complete with pictures and short descriptions of events.

Clay play
Buy terracotta paints and some clay pots at a dollar store or gardening supply store and let everyone decorate their own pot. Find interesting spots and uses for your artistic endeavours or, when the house starts to fill up, have a yard sale/art show in the front yard.

Reading circle
Books are an ageless treat with immeasurable educational value for the kids. Pick an old favourite or a new bound-to-be classic and get cosy. For older kids, let them take a turn as the reader. Be sure to add dramatic flair with accents and funny voices.

Gardening
Clear out a spot in the flowerbed and give everyone some seeds and a spot to dig. Learn about different plants, flowers and gardening techniques and maybe grow some of your own produce for family cooking night. In the winter months, this naturalist hobby can easily be transplanted indoors.

DIY gift making
Teach your children the value of the personal touch by finding simple make-at-home gift ideas and getting to work as a team. You'll easily find instructions for Do-It-Yourself candles, soaps and other small items on the Internet. Make it an ongoing project or series of projects, as you perfect your craft(s) with each special occasion.