We all know that most New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside come Feb. 1 (or earlier!). Instead of making unrealistic resolutions, make some new commitments as a family to spend more time together, argue less and stay active. Here is a great article we found on SheKnowsParenting.com
To read the article in its entirety click here
1
Sit down to dinner
Eating family dinners together has been linked to a lower incidence of teen smoking, drinking and drug use. Research also shows that kids who eat with their family get better grades.
2
Stop overscheduling
If your kids have every moment of their days scheduled, consider letting them opt out of one or two activities. You have to let your children find the balance of participating in activities they enjoy while also allowing time for free play, friends, family and sleep.
3
Unplug once a week
Designate one day a week as an “unplugged” day. On this day, turn off computers, televisions, smartphones and all other electronics and get back to basics with these fun and simple ideas:
Go hiking, biking or swimming.
Create a special arts-and-crafts project.
Cook a meal together as a family.
Set aside a couple of hours for reading time.
Go visit family or friends.
Do some spring cleaning.
Draw, paint or take pictures.
Plant a vegetable garden.
Play board games or cards.
Spend time talking, relaxing and laughing.
4
Plan family fitness days
Hold fun family fitness days to keep your family fit and healthy this year. Take a walk or go running together every evening and take advantage of extra time on the weekends to try out these new, fun ways to exercise as a family:
5
Start a family hobby
Collaborate with your family members to start a hobby together. Discuss options that interest everyone and take a vote on which hobby you would all like to try. When tossing out ideas for a hobby, consider the following:
6
The family that journals together stays together
Starting a family journal is a great way to spend more time with your kids as well as gain insight into their innermost feelings.
7
Hit the road
Traveling more is a wholesome resolution that every member of the family is sure to enjoy. The trips don’t have to be extravagant, break-the-bank treks. Think camping, road trips and visiting friends and family in nearby cities or states.
8
Make a chat pact
If you’re not used to simply chatting with your kids, creating a resolution to communicate more (outside of the necessities of the day-to-day) may seem a little silly at first. However, the more you start enjoying casual conversation with your family as a whole, the easier it will become.
9
Laugh more, argue less
Probably the most important thing you can do for your family is to enjoy life and avoid arguments. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Create a laid-back atmosphere in your household with lots of laughs and love.
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