CREATIVE WAYS TO BREAK UP THE DAILY GRIND NO MORE ‘RINSE AND REPEAT’
Breakfast, school, work, dinner, rinse, and repeat. Busy weeknights often leave little room for quality family time. However, with a bit of creativity and intentionality, you can transform even the most hectic evenings into memorable bonding moments. Here are seven engaging, low-prep activities that fit seamlessly into your evening routine. Screen-Free Time After Dinner Designate a window of 30–45 minutes after dinner as a screen-free time for the entire family. This intentional time allows for uninterrupted conversations, taking a walk, playing a favorite sport outside, or enjoying each other's company without digital distractions. You can even create a “screen bucket/basket” for everyone’s phone or tablet during this designated time.
Ongoing Dinner Board Games Extend the dinner table experience by introducing a board game that spans multiple nights. You can pause and resume games like Monopoly or Clue over several evenings. It’s a great way to stay connected all week long! Dance Party Snack Break Inject some energy into your evening by turning snack time into a mini dance party. Play your family's favorite tunes and let loose together, creating joyful memories and a fun atmosphere. Living Room Obstacle Course Use pillows, chairs, and other household items to transform your living room into an obstacle course. This activity encourages physical activity and teamwork, all within the comfort of your home.
Family Storytelling Circle Gather the family in a circle and take turns adding sentences to a story. This collaborative activity sparks creativity and often results in hilarious and imaginative tales. Talk about memory-making! Impromptu Craft Sessions Keep a box of craft supplies handy for on- the-spot art sessions. Even 15 minutes of drawing, coloring, or simple DIY projects can provide a satisfying creative outlet for both kids and adults. Pajama Walks Under the Moon On clear nights, consider a short walk around the neighborhood in your pajamas. This simple activity offers fresh air, a change of scenery, and a unique way to end the day together.
A Word From Ashlee, Grace, and Leah Your Guide to Dental Bridges
At Elkins Dental, we love helping patients feel confident in their smiles again, and when you’re missing a tooth, a dental bridge is one of our favorite ways to do just that. A dental bridge is a custom piece that “bridges” the empty space left behind when a tooth is lost. It works by using strong support teeth on either side of the gap and connecting a natural-looking replacement tooth in between. As a result, the patient has a complete, healthy-looking smile that feels comfortable and secure. Missing teeth can impact everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and even the way your bite fits together. When a space is left open too long, your other teeth may start drifting into it, creating alignment issues or trapping food more easily. A bridge helps restore balance by keeping your bite functioning properly. Types of Bridges Depending on your needs, we may recommend one of several bridge styles:
• Traditional Bridge: The most common type, supported by crowns on the neighboring teeth. • Cantilever Bridge: Used when only one natural tooth is available for support. • Resin-Bonded Bridge: Often used for front teeth and bonded with minimal tooth preparation. • Implant-Supported Bridge: Anchored by dental implants instead of natural teeth for exceptional stability. Bridge Appointment Expectations Getting a dental bridge typically takes a couple of visits. First, we shape the supporting teeth so crowns can fit comfortably. We take precise impressions to ensure your bridge blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. While your custom bridge is being crafted, we place a temporary version to protect your smile. At your next appointment, the final bridge is carefully fitted, adjusted, and bonded into place.
New Bridge Care A bridge can last many years with proper care. Brushing twice a day, cleaning under the bridge with floss threaders or interdental brushes, and keeping up with your regular cleanings all help keep your restoration strong and your gums healthy. We’re always happy to show you the best cleaning techniques. After all, that’s what we’re here for! –Ashlee, Grace, and Leah Registered Dental Hygienists
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