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Make Family Time While You Still Can

For ages families have spent quality time together, but in today's world there seems to be a blurry line between the ideas of quality time and of simply being in the same room. While it is nice to have the family all together, it may make no difference if no one is interacting in a meaningful way. Parents with kindergarteners and preschoolers range will probably have an easier time sneaking in some quality interaction than those with teenagers, but an important point to remember is that during these early years values are built in the minds of these little ones.

Make Family Time Important

By emphasizing the importance of quality time, starting when the children are very young, parents can instill in their kids the value of family time and may find it easier to get their children involved in quality activities with the rest of the family as they grow older. Because kids grow so fast it is important to many parents to soak up every possible minute they can with them, and by following these tips they can get the most out of their time with their precious little ones:

  • Put it on the schedule. By planning quality family time, parents can get kids involved and can choose activities that their children will both enjoy and look forward to. This will also add to the value of family time, as it will be seen as an important part of the week. Even for kids aged 3 to 5, a schedule can become an exciting part of their day and they can contribute their own favorite activities to the planning process.
  • Keep the kids in mind. Quality time is best when everyone is having fun, so parents should plan activities that will get their kids excited and allow the whole family, even the little ones, to participate.
  • Appreciate every moment. While your calendar may say family night is on Thursday, don't hesitate to take advantage of a few special moments that are free on Tuesday.

Sharing quality time with your family will allow you to show your kids how important they are. For young children, nothing is better than having the attention of those they love most: their parents.