Families all over the globe have had extra time together, in large part due to COVID-19. How many of you had big aspirations to really reconnect with your family during this time? How did that work out? Maximizing family time is an art. Now that things are beginning to return to a new kind of normal, let me help you. It’s never too late to seize an opportunity to become more intentional about quality time.
The average family tends to spend about 40 minutes together Monday to Friday. They seem to play catch-up on the weekends when family time increases to about 3 hours. Even a few moments of togetherness scattered throughout the day can improve family bonds. Some time is better than no time at all, right?
Making the most of family time…
In addition to making the most of your family time, you also need to be intentional with your time so that you don’t miss out on family events. You don’t want to be the one asking your child how his or her soccer game ended…you want to be there to support them from the start!
Don’t miss out!
Here are some simple ways to maximize quality time with your family and ensure you don’t miss out on important family events.
1. Inspire your child’s positive self-talk and social skills by giving them the exclusive rights to your attention. I’m talking no electronics to deter your train of thought and open ears so you can really listen to what your kids have to say. Don’t forget to respond with thoughtful questions and enthusiasm.
2. Enjoy family dinners. I know I’ve touched on this before, but it really is important! Make it a point to eat together as a family and engage your kids in conversation. Hang out around the table to chat or make family plans after your meal is over.
3. Create spontaneous fun, like dance parties or random trips to a park. If you have too many controlled events, like sports, camps or learning time, it can be overwhelming. Independent (or group) play is important, not only for your children’s social wellness, but for your sanity, too!
4. Earn your child’s trust by engaging in real conversation. Ask them questions and actually listen and respond to their answers. Validate their feelings or opinions, even if they seem crazy to you! Your kids will be more apt to disclose information in the future when they might be struggling. Another way to prompt discussion is to relate your questions to movies, television shows or books that your child likes. Some simple starters are: What would you do if (insert scene from movie)? Would you like it if (insert problem/conflict from a book)?
5. Build lifelong memories by going on family outings. An outing can be anything from a grocery trip to a family vacation. Either way, make your kids feel like they are involved in the planning (if it’s not a surprise) and the choices when it comes to where to go and what to do first (within reason, of course!). Chances are, your mind will feel more relaxed and fulfilled from a day out of the house…even if you’re physically exhausted!
Practice makes perfect
When you pay attention to the 5 items listed above, you can maximize your family time, and in the end, you might realize the importance of being at family events whenever you can. Once you practice a couple of these, look at your schedule for the upcoming week and make it a priority to be in attendance for at least one family event (sports games, pick-ups/drop-offs, play dates for your kids, family outing, birthday party or any celebration…). There’s no harm in starting small. So, rearrange your work schedule, call on your partner or best friend and make it happen!
