Make time for family activities

A sense of belonging to a family is enhanced when families take time to engage in common activities. Develop family rituals and memories.

Parenting tips

Have meals together.
Establish family traditions.
Use family discussion time to share needs and feelings, to discuss interests and solve problems, and to promote cooperation and plan family life.
Praise your child’s contributions to family and home life.
Help your children identify the tasks and responsibilities they can do around the house.
Help your children recognize and appreciate their cultural heritage.

Activities

Look at family photos together.
Plan menus and outings together.
Make up and put on a play or skit together.
“Cook” a batch of playdough and make holiday decorations.
Get buckets of soap and water and do the car or windows.
Go on a “history” walk or outing.
Plant seeds indoors or bulbs outdoors.
Pack a picnic together and take it to the backyard or a park.
Take a get-well basket to a neighbor or friend who is ill.