Monday, February 20, 2012
WHAT WILL YOUR KIDS REMEMBER
What will your kids remember about their childhood?
Will they cherish the trip to the theme park, the Xbox360, PS3, or the cell
phone you bought them? Or will they remember dad cooking pancakes for
them, wrestling with them on the floor... and mom writing those special
notes for their lunchboxes, or cheering for them at their games? Our
children won't reminisce about big events and big-ticket items.
Rather, their hearts will be warmed by memories of the love, caring and
companionship you showed them day-to-day. Those are the things that will
make a lasting impression they will carry with them into the future. Take
a look at these 10 Tips for Better Family Time.
10 Tips to Better Family Time
Parents and their children are spending less time interacting
with each other. As a result, many children are getting less
personal love and attention than their parents did. American
Demographics reported that parents today spend roughly 40
percent less time with their children than did parents a
generation ago. To help families stay connected, below is a
list of helpful family time tips. Keep in mind, quantity and
quality time is important when choosing activities. So build
memories around exciting events by keeping your family time
creative and enjoyable. Print out the following tips as daily
reminders.
1. Eat together & listen to each other
Most children today don't know the meaning of a family
dinnertime. Yet the communication and unity built during this
set-ting is integral to a healthy family life. Sharing a meal
together allows the opportunity to talk about each other's
lives. This is a time for parents to listen, as well as to
give advice and encouragement. Attentive listening conveys a
message that a person is really interested in another. It also
imparts a sense of worth and helps develop trust. Therefore,
listening is a critical link in successful parenting.
2. Read often
It's important for parents to read to their children. The
latest research indicates that reading to your children
cultivates an interest for knowledge and stimulates language
development. It also increases their attention spans and helps
them become more curious. Look for books that your child would
enjoy reading. After reading, ask questions about the content.
3. Do chores together
Part of what goes on in the home is the development of
teamwork. Functional family life depends on the contribution
of everyone. Assigning chores is the most productive way of
teaching responsibility and accountability to your children.
Doing chores with your child will help foster good
communication skills.
4. Help with schoolwork
A great way to spend quality time with children and light a
fire of learning is to help children with their schoolwork. A
parent's eagerness to help will cause a child to become more
interested in school thus improving his or her grades. Regular
trips to the library for school projects are an inexpensive
and enjoyable way to spend time with children. Helping should
begin with an understanding that children are responsible for
homework. Parents are there to help their child get organized
and to encourage them when they get stuck.
5. Start a hobby or project
Choose a fun activity that your child is interested in.
Activities like cooking, crafts, fishing or biking will make
great hobbies that can open the door to exciting family time.
Once a child learns a new recipe or is able to cast a lure
accurately, let him or her take the lead with your
supervision.
6. Play games
New technology has made video games more prevalent. As a
result, many children are spending long hours in front of the
TV playing computer programs. Parents should find creative
ways to spark an interest in family-oriented contests such as
board games or card games. This will give parents additional
time to talk and nurture their relationship.
7. Plan a family outing
Sometimes getting out of the house is important. Hop in the
family car and go for a drive. Prepare a picnic lunch and
visit a local park. Take time to play catch or ride a bike. A
stroll in the woods will help parents interact with their
children. Also, a visit to the zoo or museum will spark a
child's enthusiasm and lead to lengthy discussions.
8. Encourage athletic activities
It is vital for children to exercise. Sports not only
strengthen the body, but also build character and
determination. Whether it's a father pitching a baseball to a
son or a mother and daughter nature walking, finding time for
athletic events is important for a child's emotional and
physical development. This is a great opportunity for a family
to interact.
9. Create a Family Time calendar
Since many parents have hectic schedules, time with children
often becomes a low priority whether intended or not. Post a
calendar on the refrigerator and have parents and children
pencil in special events. Knowing when you're going to meet
may also help you think of creative activities. Commit to
keeping this schedule free from interruptions.
10. Pray together & attend a house of worship
Nothing is more special than taking a few minutes each day to
pray with a child before bedtime. By explaining the purpose
behind prayer, children will learn the importance of faith as
the foundation for the family. Also, when parents go to
religious services, they instill in their children a reverence
for God. Churches can also offer invaluable support to
families.
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