It’s hard to believe, but 2015 is just around the corner. While we encourage everyone to make personal resolutions, it’s a lot of fun to create family resolutions, too. Common goals can help you work together and encourage one another. These great ideas are sure to make your family excited to work together as a team.
Get competitive. Does your family watch a lot of TV? Even if you’re all watching the same show, you’re engaging in a passive activity. Schedule television-free days and use your newfound time to play board or video games together.
Make time for family dinner. We get it—eating on the go is the norm for many busy households. But studies show that eating together as a family can have lasting benefits. This year resolve to have a family meal (breakfast counts!) at least once per week.
Schedule one-on-one time. If you have multiple children, it’s often hard to divide attention. This year make an effort to schedule one-on-one outings once per month. Each child will receive personal, special attention that can help ensure he or she feels important. And remember, it’s crucial that siblings spend one-on-one time together, too.
Commit to a pet. Have your kids begged for a pet? If you’re ready and willing to take the plunge, work together as a family to outline responsibilities. Everyone should have a specific job that helps keep your new pet happy and healthy.
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. If you don’t already have a recycling plan, start one. Create bins for recyclable materials and start working together to go green. Switch to cloth rather than paper napkins. Recycle plastic bottles, aluminum cans, plastics, cardboard, and newspapers. If your family is feeling particularly ambitious, make a plan to start a compost pile or bin. You can use the new, rich soil to start a garden project when it gets warm again!
Establishing family projects and goals helps improve communication and trust. What are your favorite family resolutions?
