As a consequence of an increasingly busy schedule, “family time” seems to be dwindling as we learn to manage our time differently. This leaves parents wondering about how to maintain interests while increasing togetherness among their family members. We would like to share some tips on how to make family time more enjoyable and include everyone’s interests so that everyone feels engaged and appreciated.

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels

Use A Family Calendar

Schedule your activity on a day that is convenient for you. Written down and planned activities have a better chance of everyone being available when they are scheduled. Each month, mark the calendar with a variety of family activities and pick one to try on the scheduled family night. By doing so, everyone can explore what interests them. You could even include things such as addin grocery delivery on your family calendar so everyone knows when to expect its arrival.

Increase Participation

As a parent, you may want to swap responsibilities and swap duties if you usually make dinner and supervise homework for your children. Get the kids involved if possible in creative ways to help… maybe teaching them the basics of measuring ingredients will help them with their math skills!

Use Family Task Time

As I said above, teamwork is one of the best ways to build relationships, utilize each other’s strengths, and spend time together. From doing the laundry to cleaning the garage, even doing something as simple as cleaning the garage can promote family participation and cohesiveness. You may want to add a little music for added harmony!

Have Less Screen Time

Families are spending less and less time with each other because of the time they are spending looking at screens. Put away your electronic devices, such as your television, so that you can spend more time reading, making crafts or talking together.

Get Outdoors

Activities that take place outside offer opportunities to show off everyone’s skills and interests; activities can range from gardening to playing games; everyone in the family can make the most of these opportunities. Think outside the box and come up with ideas on how you can create competition for fall leaf piles or a pillowcase race in the summer!

Utilise Dinner Time

Instead of talking about problems or concerns, start creative conversations during dinner time. Imaginative questions can be asked in family gatherings, such as what the family members’ dream vacation or dream job is.

Taking Turns Teaching

By sharing their skills and talents, family members can build better relationships, especially since everyone has different strengths. Learn how to cook with your family and have fun learning how to fold paper aeroplanes with your family.

Relax For A While

A few minutes on the couch, in a pillow fort, or watching a movie on the floor shouldn’t be stressful.  You can bond with your family by relaxing together if you are together.

 

As you can see there are many ways that you can create family time without it feeling pressured or forced. Do you have any other tips that could help? Please share a few in the comments below.