Game Night

Between homework and after-school activities, it can be hard to spend quality time together as a family during the school year. Instead of going different directions on weekends, try scheduling a night to stay in and play games that the whole family can enjoy. Pair kid-friendly foods, such as homemade pizza and finger sandwiches, with favorite board or electronic games for an exciting night of friendly competition. Before long, it'll be time for a rematch!

These delicious finger sandwiches are easy to eat between turns and fit in wonderfully with the "Game Night" theme. Themed foods add a festive touch to any gathering, and kids are sure to love helping put together the checkerboard patthern. You can also try experimenting with different types of bread and cheeses for variety.Recipe: Checkerboard Cheese Sandwiches

Pizza meets pasta in this scrumptious make-your-own-pie recipe. Using fresh ingredients lends a wonderfully rich flavor that frozen pizza just can't match. Personalize your pizza by mixing and matching other veggies, meats, cheeses, and sauces for a cheesy Italian creation that's all your own.Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo Pizza

Your kids will have a great time helping to decorate these easy and delicious cookies. All you need is a roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough and a bag of semisweet chocolate morsels. The hardest part about making this recipe is trying not to sneak bits of dough or morsels here and there!Recipe: Domino Cookies

These oven-baked chicken fingers are not only tasty, but good for you too–baking them (instead of frying) cuts way down on fat and calories. The ground, toasted pecans add great flavor, so kids won't even miss the full-fat variety. Serve with your family's favorite sauces, from honey mustard to ranch dressing.Recipe: "Fried" Pecan Chicken Fingers

Cider is a wonderful way to warm up on cool autumn nights, and this recipe is sure to do the trick. Simmering the cider will also fill your home with the comforting aromas of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. For kids eager to help in the kitchen, this is a great way to start–let them mix together the ingredients on a countertop before you heat the stove.Recipe: Apricot-Apple Cider Sipper