Ways To Bring Your Family Closer Together

photo credit: Mondays with Mac Photography

Ways to Bring Your Family Closer Together

Time goes fast. One day you have an infant, and the next thing you know they are getting on a bus and starting school. You blink, and all of a sudden they have their first job, and then seemingly out of nowhere - they are moving away to pursue post secondary education.

Its really easy to put things on the back burner thinking you have lots of time for your family, but in reality, that time passes quickly. We may live in the same home as our spouse and children, but with many families being on the go at this time, we don't necessarily connect with them.

We need to make sure that we are taking time together. Time to laugh, time to play, and time to get to know each other. It can be as simple as enjoying a day outside exploring the city you live in. Spending time playing board games (each family member can choose their favourite) Eating dinner together and talking about your day. Ask your kids questions, get to know THEM. What they like, and almost more importantly, what they DON'T like. Take an interest in their hobbies and passions - even if it wouldn't interest you otherwise.  Also letting them ask YOU questions. You may be surprised by what they want to know.

If you find it hard to put aside the every day chores and upkeep of home, then plan a vacation together. There are many family resort you can choose from, or if it's your spouse you need to reconnect with, then find an all-inclusive adult getaway to spend time together. It's always easier to put work and home out of your mind when you are actually away from it all.

If it's a family vacation you are choosing, make sure to keep your expectations at an appropriate level. Kids will still act like kids when you are away from home. Making sure to get enough rest, and plan meals and snacks is one way to keep everyone (not just the kids) from getting snippy with each other.

You will (hopefully) find yourself rested and relaxed when you come home, and maybe find it a little easier to connect with your family members.

What's your favourite way to connect as a family?