What Did Your Family Do for Fun When You Were a Child?

Growing up, my family had unique and cherished traditions that sparked joy during different seasons and occasions. These moments, though simple, are etched in my memory and continue to warm my heart as I reflect on them.

Fabulous Traditions

My mom loved golf in the summer and the card game bridge in the winter. Despite her enthusiasm, I never took up these activities. Instead, I had my own unique fun rituals every summer that I look back on fondly.

Our family, being a 70s family from South India, engaged in carrom ludo just like many others. However, during summer, my mother embarked on a special project – making sun-dried vadagams (a type of Indian sweet), a sweet treat that quickly became my favorite. The tradition began each day by cleaning the upper terrace of our house to remove any traces of dust and dirt. As the sun rose, plastic sheets were spread on the terrace, and we, the family members, would collectively participate in the hand-making process. All activities would conclude by 7:30 in the morning. Then, the children took over as the guardians, a task involving the protection of the vadagams from eager squirrels, crows, and sparrows. We would sit in the shade, surrounded by stacks of storybooks and snacks, which we demanded as payment for our lookout duty. The vadagams tasted phenomenal, even before they were fully dried, and it was interesting to note that more of us would eat more of them guarded, than if they were left unguarded.

The process of making vadagams would last for a couple of weeks, enough to ensure a year-long stock of treats for the whole family. This tradition, in particular, highlights the importance of family unity and the joy that can be derived from such simple, collaborative tasks.

Family Games and Hobbies

When it came to board games, my family experienced a phase of playing Monopoly on the dining table during meals. My mother would remind us of our positions on the board, and before setting the table, she would cover the board with a tablecloth. Summer weekends were spent at the gliding club, where my father, a passionate hobbyist, taught me and my siblings the art of flying. The clubhouse was accompanied by caravans shared by several families, creating a sense of community and adventure.

Traditional and Creative Activities

Other enjoyable activities included solving puzzles, reading books, making string figures, playing jacks, and flying kites. I grew up during a time when such simple pleasures were abundant, and I am grateful for the wholesome fun we shared as a family. We also played hide and seek, jumped rope, and played tag, which were among our favorite ways to stay active and enjoy each other's company.

Family outings to church for Sunday brunches were followed by leisurely drives in the National Forest. While in the car, we often engaged in impromptu singing sessions. The logging roads of the forest took us through unique landscapes, and although I didn’t fully appreciate the beauty of these drives as a child, I realize now the value of these family outings. The feeling of being led home by Dad, who I now understand to be like a homing pigeon, adds to the cherished memories.

Conclusion

These cherished memories of family fun have not only brought me joy but also teach me the importance of family traditions and togetherness. If you look back, I am sure you too have some wonderful stories to share. What fun activities did your family enjoy together during childhood?