Family time is important.  It increases a family’s bond, communication and health and well-being. However, with dual income homes, extracurricular activities and weekend events it can be difficult to find time to spend together as a family.  Advances in technology have also put constraints on the time that families spend together. Both parents and children are using iPads, iPods and smart phones in order to stay connected with others outside of the home. This decreases the amount of time families have to spend with each other. Set aside some time at least once per week to spend time with your family to strengthen your bond and communication.

Here are some examples of easy and fun family activities:

• Eat dinner together 1-2 times per week at home.
• Eat out at a restaurant once a month.
• Go for walks together.
• Movie Night at home.
• Game Night (board games, card games).
• Go to the park.
• Go to local festivals and fairs.
• Go to your local zoo.
• Read books together.
• Visit a movie theater.
• Go to museums.
• Cook dinner together.
• Bake together.
• Go for a bike ride.
• Ice skating.
• Go to your local pool or beach.
• Play outdoor games (hide and seek, Capture the Flag, Volleyball, Basketball).
• Play dates with extended family or family friends.
• Attend family gatherings.

What is your favorite family activity?

Sarah Paul is a certified social worker and specializes in working with children who have experienced trauma.

Blessing, Michelle. “Importance of Family Activities.” eHow Mom. 9 May 2013. <http://www.ehow.com/info_7888898_importance-family-activities.html>