In these fast moving times with video games and computers enticing children of all ages, it can be tough to get your kids to play outside with friends, let alone to do something together with their family. Having something that families like to do together is a good thing and collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia fits that bill for many families quite nicely.

At first it might seem surprising that ?collecting? could be something that could bring a family together and not be something that one generation is simply enduring for the benefit of the other. But that is where collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia is almost unique. Because Coke has been around for so long, it spans the generations so that there is truly something for everyone. Those who love antiques have their older Coke memorabilia to look for and learn about and those who like keeping current and are fans of pop-culture have limited edition collectibles being released in current times. Not only does Coke's past give an opportunity for history to be learned, Coke's life today gives parents an opportunity to stay current with their kids as they learn about what's hot today and what's not. There is also something for just about every time in between!

There are many unexpected ?treasures? to be found in having collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia as your family's hobby. Not only does it provide the obvious time together when tracking down that special item, but it fosters communication about a common topic as well as an opportunity for practicing and improving reading and research skills while learning about Coke's history and their different memorabilia items. There are possibilities of meeting others involved in the hobby as well by becoming part of a Collectors group locally or in the nearest big city ? also providing an opportunity for developing social skills and being exposed to people from different places. And although it leads back to the computer, doing some connecting with Collector groups on the Internet can encourage pen pals with a common (and safe!) interest as collector friendships build across the globe.

Some families also use their collecting as a great way to choose vacation destinations. Where will Coca-Cola be releasing their newest collectible item? At the 50 year anniversary of Disneyland? What a great excuse to pack up and go on a roadtrip! There is a new production facility opening in Texas? What a great way to learn about what happens behind the scenes of your family's hobby than to include a visit there in an upcoming trip. Of course there is always The World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, Georgia as an attraction unto itself.

And in a topic closer to home, collecting can also be an opportunity to learn the value of money. Although this can be an extremely affordable hobby, saving for a particular big ticket item that somebody would like to have in their collection sets a good example of what it takes to earn and save. Everyone can also learn responsibility of having to care for their collection, depending of course on what their particular Coca-Cola memorabilia of choice to collect might be. There might be dusting, or cleaning or hanging involved that also adds skills to the treasure chest.

Even those family members who may not seem as anxious to get involved might find some curiosity in specializing in a particular area of interest. Are they a soccer fan? How about collecting only soccer related Coke items? There are virtually endless possibilities of the specialties that can exist within Coca-Cola memorabilia. Pin-up girls of days gone by, Olympic related, sporting event limited editions, the Coke Polar Bears, Christmas items, and on and on. There is bound to be something that can spark a bit of interest and get everyone included in their own way.

Throughout the years, just as your family will grow and go in different directions as their interests develop and lives unfold, there will be memories and a common thread that you all will have. And the hobby can change and develop with you. The items collected may change as childhood fancies evolve into more mature interests. ?Investing? in collectibles isn't always just for monetary gain although that is a nice possibility. Collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia seems to include many other paybacks and to bring unexpected treasures to your door. It may be a stretch, but wouldn't it be nice to be able to say ?Families that Collect Coke together stay together??