Making memories with the family that will last forever
“Family time is sacred time and should be protected and respected.” – Boyd K. Packer
People have different concepts of family time. For some, it is having a family dinner once a week, going someplace amazing, or doing fun things with the kids. For others, it means going back to their childhood home for the weekend to be with the entire family. Meanwhile, some have to deal with distance and can only “be with” their family through video chats.
For most of us, however, family time is sacred time, where each family member respects the tradition and teaches the younger generation to be appreciative and protective of it.
“The best way to make children good is to make them happy.” – Oscar Wilde
A happy child is a healthy child. This is true not only physically, but emotionally as well – a happy childhood is one of the reasons children grow up to be compassionate and kind adults.
Fortunately, making children happy doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, they do the simplest things and feel happy about it. Spending quality time with kids is one sure way to make them happy.
How do I create and enjoy quality time with my family?
There are so many things that you and your kids can do together. The possibilities are endless – from doing simple household chores and outdoor activities to grand holidays. Here are some ideas to consider:
Outdoor play is not only fun, it’s good exercise too.
You can go to the park to walk, ride a bike or have a picnic, lie on the grass and look for animals and other shapes in the clouds. You can help your kid learn new things like catching a ball or climbing a tree. Then on a clear night, you can look at the stars and talk about your child’s dreams, aspirations, worries, and even frustrations.
Do household chores together
By assigning chores to your kids, you teach them responsibility and accountability. Besides, doing the chores together gives you both the chance to tell each other what’s on your mind and helps to cultivate good communication skills.
Start a project
Your kids could be interested in cooking, fishing, painting, or dancing. Get them to try anything they fancy, and then turn it into a project or a hobby. Learn a new recipe with them, join an art class, or enrol them in a dance class. As soon as they are comfortable enough with the activity, try to encourage them to take the lead to help them develop their confidence.
Go on a family outing
Plan to go somewhere where you can safely enjoy the outdoors with your family. For example, go on a long, scenic drive, or prepare a picnic lunch, visit the zoo, museum or local market, or go to the beach. Any of these activities can spark your kids’ enthusiasm and start a good discussion.
Play games with the kids
Quality time with the family means knowing their interests. If your kids are into video or online gaming, learn the mechanics and play with them. However, it would be best to encourage them to learn some board games or card games. This will give you more time to talk and bond with each other, as well as help your kid learn to wait for their turn and play fair.
Get them into sports
Watch or play sports together with your kids. Playing sports strengthens the body as well as builds character and determination. Playing and watching sports are essential for your kid’s emotional and physical development. So, join a local football team or find time to watch a professional league.
Turn everyday tasks into something special
For example, you can make a trip to the grocery store and let your kid help to decide what to buy, pay for your groceries and talk to shop assistants. You can later make a special snack together using the stuff you bought.
Help your kids with their schoolwork
Your eagerness to help will make your child more interested in school, which can improve their grades. Guide them as they do their research on the internet. Going to the library may seem obsolete to some, but it is actually an excellent way to spend quality time with your kids. You can take the opportunity to teach them how a library is organised and how to find the books that they would need.
Of course, helping your kids with their schoolwork must begin with an understanding that they are responsible for their homework. You are only there to help them get organised and push them on when they get stuck.
“While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about.” – Angela Schwindt
Spending time with kids is best for their development and well-being. It builds your relationship with your kids and boosts their confidence. This quality time with them is your chance to give your kids your full attention. It sends the message that they are the most important thing to you.
You can find out more about your kids’ worries, frustrations, likes and dislikes. You can be a role model for your kids and give them some guidance. As they learn from you, you also get the chance to see the world from their point of view.
“If you come from a solid family structure, it doesn’t matter what you go through in your life. You’re going to be okay.” – Alyssa Milano
Children from functional family are better equipped to face the challenges that come their way. For example, the simple task of eating meals together is said to enhance the health and well-being of kids. So, as a parent, it is your job to make sure that your kids develop their social skills and emotional wellness, and the best way to do this is to spend quality time with them.
Spend quality time with the family at Cornwall House Accommodation
If you’re planning a holiday in Kojonup or The Great Southern Region, you’ll be hard pressed to find a motel as comfortable and welcoming as Cornwall House Accommodation. We have 10 new air-conditioned, well-appointed rooms to ensure that you have a comfortable stay while in Western Australia. Call us at (08) 9831 0214 to reserve a room or check availability here.