Just like mom and dad need time, so does the whole family. My kids LOVE it when we have have family time. Once a week we try and devote an evening to the whole family. Last week, we made pizza and decorated cupcakes, then played charades. Sometimes, we read from a book, or watch a movie together. The point is full on focus on the family. The kids love to see mom and dad play and be silly and it is always fun to see your kids laughing and having fun. Games are also a great learning tool for kids, they learn problem solving, sportsmanship and taking turns.
Spending time with your kids when they are older may be even more important. Here's a great article about the importance of spending time with your teen. So much of parenting includes heavy topics its good to have fun relaxed time, so kids, especially teens can earn your trust and you can be aware of issues going on in their life.
Last week, when I wrote here about limiting activities, one reader Jesse, commented that "my kids are a bit older and limiting their activities is really hard. Sports and other activities really creep in on family time, so we try our best to use that time AS family-relaxing time the best we can. Packing picnics for soccer games, hanging out by the pool during hockey tournaments, and reading aloud to each other on those long drives to away-games all help us bond and gives the kids a chance to chill." I love that Jesse uses that time as family time too. That's a great idea Jess, thanks for sharing it!
Do you all have any activities your family loves?
This is part of a 31 day series about creating family bliss, to read more click here.
I'm blushing! :-) But you're so right- family time is invaluable. We love our pizza and movie nights, and if we break out the board games.... Whoa, the kids are in heaven! Great post!
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