Family traditions and regular rituals can hold families together. Did you know that the average American family spends only 14.5 minutes a day all together? Stack that up against all the "screen time" most kids spend each day, and you begin to see the large difference in influence. So what do you do if you want to spend more than 14 1/2 minutes together with your family a day? How can you do it? You can do almost anything! You don't have to spend a lot of money or make elaborate plans. Remember, the goal is simply to provide a sense of belonging and identity, communicate what's important, and have fun. A partial list of ideas
- Go for a drive in the car
- Take a family trip
- Go for ice cream
- Have a picnic
- Read bedtime stories
- Take vacations
- Play games
- Get involved in church activities
- Participate in sporting events
- At holiday time, work together as a family and feed those less fortunate.
The list is really endless. Ask your kids for ideas. I know of one family that would set up tents and have an indoors camp-out whenever it really stormed outside. In our fast-paced society, families are pulled in so many different directions. It takes commitment and just a little time to provide a sense of connectedness for all family members. And the benefits and memories can last a lifetime. Visit http://www.ParentingYourTeenager.com for tips and tools for thriving during the teen years. For regular weekly tips you can subscribe to our f-ree Parenting Your Teenager Newsletter. You can also subscribe to our f*r*e*e 5 day e-program on The Top 5 Things to Never Say to Your Teenager from parenting coach and expert Jeff Herring.
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