1. Delegate Family Chores
It's hard to argue about chores once they're displayed in print. Post a family to-do list where everyone can see it, outlining each family member's weekly responsibilities. Even better, make it a checklist and give your child a star sticker for each completed task. Offer bigger rewards, such as a pizza night, once a certain number of stickers are obtained. |
2. Cut Down On The Taxi Service
Do you spend your evenings driving your kids around to after-school activities? If they're old enough to walk or bike, encourage that independence. If not, arrange a carpool with other parents. In the long run you'll save a whole lot of time, along with your sanity! |
3. A Sit-Down Family Dinner
When's the last time your family sat down together at the table for a nutritious home-cooked meal? Turn off the TV, set a time and sit down with the whole family. Use the time to talk to each other. Get everyone involved in the meal preparation and clean up.
|
4. Go Unplugged
Pick a night (weekly or monthly) to turn off the TV, the computer, and the video games. Spend the time together as a family - play board games, get active outside, or just visit.
|
5. Fit Family
Spend quality time with the family and get everyone moving at the same time. Take the dog for walk, go for a family bike ride, play backyard sports - whatever suits your style. Set an example for your kids and make exercise a priority.
|
6. Health Check
Go beyond booking an annual appointment with the dentist and the family doctor. When is the last time you checked on your child's hygiene routine? Make sure they're washing, brushing and flossing daily. Hand washing is especially important to stop the spread of germs and promote good health!
|
7. Homework Habits
Help your kids develop a proper studying routine! Set-up a workspace for them and make sure they have all the supplies they need on hand. Be there to help them if they need it and encourage healthy study habits.
|
8. Stop The Morning Mayhem
Take 20 minutes in the evening to plan ahead for the morning. Set out your clothes and get your kids to do the same. Prepare and bag lunches. Organize breakfast. Make sure your family members have everything they need packed and ready to go at the front door, so no one is scrambling at the last minute.
|
9. If They're Safe, You're Sound
Discuss emergency procedures as a family and give each of your children age-appropriate safety lessons. Make sure your kids know how and when to call 911, and post the phone numbers of family contacts to call in less serious situations. Equip your home with a fire extinguisher and a fully stocked first aid kit.
|
10. One-On-One Time
Family life is busy. How often do you get to spend time with your kids on an individual basis? It's both important and rewarding to make the time to build your relationship with them. Get really well acquainted with who they are and how things are going in their lives, and let them get to know you better as well.
|
