Spending Time With Your Family

Do you need to spend more time with the members of your family? The word more refers not only to quantity of time but to quality of time.

Spending quality time with each other benefits the whole family. In an article titled Indicators of Child, Family and Community Connections: Family Time, research showed that, “Children are better off in terms of academic and emotional well-being from time spent with parents, and from parenting that is characterized by warmth as well as rule-setting.” Proof of a healthy education and emotions due to increased family time makes a strong case for finding ways to be together as a family. In another article it is stated, “By setting aside time for our children as well as our spouse, we’ll strengthen their beliefs that they are loved and they are an important part of the family.” Everyone benefits from family-togetherness. Every family member deserves to feel wanted, accepted, loved and important.

So how can you spend more time with your spouse, children or other family members. First of all, just start doing things together. Think of activities that do not always require going somewhere or spending money. Fun and learning can take place with minimal resources and planning. Read together, make meals, exercise, organize or clean, make a craft, sing or dance to music, have a picnic, go to your child’s room and let him tell you about his belongings, or tell jokes. When you are out of ideas, let your child choose an activity or outing. The important thing is not what you are doing but that you are doing.

Start making time spent with your family as much of a necessity and priority as going to work. The benefits will be contented hearts and more peaceful families.