Making the Most of Family Time

Why is it that time seems to fly by when your children are young? Here are three tips to making the most of each moment with your family.

1) Plan for Quality Time

Quality time requires your  focus and undivided attention. Children can tell when you are distracted, but life is busy! Make it easier to focus by planning specific activities -  a special picnic or a parent-child date night.  Sometimes it is easier to stay focused if the activity has a timeframe. These planned activities will  nourish your own need for connection and create lasting memories for your family.

2) Unplug from Distractions

Unplug and disconnect from your devices so you can stay focused on the moment. Be present in the moment with those you love and enjoy the time with one another. When you unplug and just enjoy the moment, whatever you do will be special time spent together.

3) Keep Your Balance

As you are planning your family activities, keep yourself in mind - it's ok to plan things you like too.  Also, make sure to set some time aside for yourself, as well as for you and your spouse without the kids.  Keeping yourself healthy, and your relationship solid, are some of the best things you can do for a happy family.

My family took summer vacations for many years on a houseboat on Lake Powell.  We started these trips, along with two neighbor families, when I was just eight years old. A bit like camping on the water, this was a completely "unplugged" trip. In hindsight, the most memorable moments are the great conversations we had, playing Monopoly and other board games in the evenings, enjoying time on the water, and hiking in the beautiful grand canyon. No cell phone needed! The entire group grew close over the years and learned what really mattered in life: intentional time with those you love.