Practical and Intentional Family Time
It is almost 10 pm, and you realize it is the first time you have sat down since your busy day of chaos began. The events of the day wash over you. From the rush to get everyone breakfast and out the door this morning to cowboy wrangling your littles for a bath and into bed this evening. Laundry is piled up on the bathroom floor and toys are strewn about everywhere. You cannot even remember the last time you dusted or vacuumed. Thankfully, the weekend is here for some quality family time, but then you realize there is dance practice, two birthday parties, and groceries to buy. You see your family every day, but you still miss them. Being in a working-parent household is hard, especially when you feel that you don’t have enough time to spend with your family.
Family is not the most important thing, it is everything. Making family time a priority is achievable with just a few simple mindset changes and planning. Below is a list of practical things that you can start with your family today.
- Leave the devices on the charger at dinnertime. Implement a no screens at the table policy.
- Designate a family game night once a week.
- Prepare dinner together. Homemade Pizza or a Taco Bar.
- Movie night. Pop popcorn and grab some pillows and blankets.
- Dance party in the living room.
- Family bike ride after dinner.
- Pick out books to read together before bed each night.
- Clean the house. I know this one does not sound like fun family time – but if you work together, it becomes fun. Move the furniture around and clean out the clutter.
Remember is important to be authentic when spending time with your family. Do not try to compete with the parent on Facebook who takes their children on fancy vacations or treat them to expensive hobbies. The family activity can be simple. Do not compare, instead focus on the activities that work for you and your family.
Use this time to build a well-rounded relationship and strong bond with your family. Cherish the moments you spend together and create lasting memories that everyone will appreciate.
