Keeping our families focused on spending quality time together now-a-days can be very challenging. I have compiled some suggestions that might just bring back real face-time to our families. Rainy days, storm days, and busy days still can allow spending quality time together.
Some of my most precious memories come from those moments where we stole a few minutes in the day.
Children:
Summer / Spring Activities
Sprinkler, is great for those hot summer days as well as when you need your garden watered you may find some volunteers to "help" you. Want a free sprinkler? Take a 2 litre soft drink bottle and attach to end of hose with duct tape. Punch holes in bottle and watch the fun happen!
when you are planting your garden why not allow your children to plant their own section, which would include taking care of it.
if you have a picnic table, paint a "tic-tac-toe" and a "checkers" game on the top so while you are at the BBQ they can play.
Rainy Days / Storm Days
Running in the rain: what a cheap sprinkler where everyone has their turn at the same time!
Making "artwork"! Great for decorating a home office
Spouse / Significant Other:
When my children were small time alone and away from the children was difficult not just with finding time but with the guilt of being away from the children. After going through an experience with our daughter not EVER wanting us to leave her we found out that actually we were making her worse by giving in and not leaving her. It was difficult but we managed to "escape" once a week for date night, outside of the house and away from the children. Within a couple weeks our daughter become accepting that she could "live" without mom and dad being with her 24/7. Ideas on how to fit in some "spouse/significant other time"are listed:
Date: This can be as small or as big depending on the time you have. But it needs to be child free: breakfast at local coffee shop, meet-up for coffee break, movie/theater night, dinner out, or stay-in-date (this one requires outside childcare)
When time doesn't allow time away from children or commitments you can still: text special "thinking of you", a phone call to say "hi", a note on the fridge or chalk board.
Make a coupon book with coupons for special things you can do for each other. Every once in awhile you can select a coupon and present it to your significant other.
Parents / Elderly:
Once grown we sometimes forget that keeping our family together also includes our parents. Parents and the elderly are more "connected" and active that years ago but that doesn't mean they are "connected" to their families.
I remember when I was a child we would gather together as a family for family events. Those traditions sometimes have become lost.
Here are some ways to get back together:
1) Begin a new tradition and start getting back together for special occasions.
2) Facebook or social media everyday
3) Phone calls are still allowed
4) If you need childcare and your parents are available have them come to your home so you can all get to see each other. This keeps you connected.