Fitting in Family Time
- Prioritization is key for all online students
- Sharing time with family is an important priority to maintain
- Work with your children and family to create time for each other
Communication
The first component of fitting in family time is communication. To get the entire family on board:
Have a Family Meeting
The key to successful family time is making sure everyone is on the same page. Sit your family down and explain that time together is still a priority even though you have a busy schedule and have to dedicate a lot of free time to studying for your degree.
Bust Out Your Calendar
Actually schedule time together as a family on your calendar. This includes time the entire family is together as well as one on one time with each family member. Don't forget about staying connected with your extended family and friends.
If you set up time to see them you have more control over your schedule and you won't have to feel guilty about saying no to them on other occasions when your schedule is full.
Let Your Children Have a Say
Part of the reason you have scheduled this time together is to really connect as a family. One of the best ways to do that is to make sure everyone will find the time enjoyable.
When kids are part of the planning process they will really look forward to the time together and it will be more meaningful.
Keep Everyone Informed
A simple calendar is enough to keep the family aware of the schedule, but creating a family newsletter is a fun twist. Teachers use them, organizations use them, now your family can too.
A family newsletter can include dates to remember, the week's family to-do list, menu and tidbits on what everyone is up to. Check out Families With Purpose for directions to put together your family newsletter.
Commitment
To make family time a success everyone must be committed. A few considerations include:
Focus on Quality
When you don't a lot of time to give make sure your time together is quality. Assure everyone that during your designated times together they will get your undivided attention.
If you are supposed to be reading with your child don't try to watch television at the same time. If you are working on a craft together don't sneak off to check your email real quick. Spending time together should be your entire focus.
Emphasize that You Need Everyone's Commitment
To make family time work you need everyone to view that time as sacred. Keep your promises and hold the rest of the family to the same standards. Canceling on the ones your care about will leave them feeling unappreciated and taken for granted.
Once you have that time together as a family scheduled, stick to it just as you would any other commitment.
Keep the Division of Labor Fair
You won't have any time or energy for others if you are the only one running the household. Everyone should be pitching in around the house while you are busy with school. Keep them accountable and remind them that slacking off on chores means you'll have less time to spend with them.
Creativity
A key element to fitting in family time is getting creative. When time is not in large supply you can still connect as a family by:
Focus on Variety
Create a master list of fun activities and keep adding to it. Get everyone's input. Organize the list by seasons and make a special notation if the activity is free.
Make the Most of Unexpected Time Together
Sing songs with your kids while you are driving them to practice. Ask your husband about his day as you are cleaning up the kitchen together (and then really listen).
Run Errands Together
You have to go grocery shopping. Your best friend has to go grocery shopping. Do it together. Running errands together means you fulfill your responsibilities while spending time with others. When you are done you can stop off for a cup of coffee and really catch up.
Start a New Hobby Together
Your time as a family can have a greater impact when everyone is also excited about trying something new. Some new hobbies to try are creating family memory books, bowling, or bird watching at the park.
Exercise Together
Fitness is another essential to a healthy lifestyle. Exercising with others is a great way to stay connected, maintain motivation and keep in shape. Family fitness doesn't have to be limited to the treadmill. Playing games like tag, flag football and dodge ball can be fun and a great workout.
Make Mealtime Sacred
Sitting down for a meal together can be difficult when outside activities keep family members coming and going. Even if it means you are all eating at odd times, have at least one meal together as a family gathered around the table.
Remember the Little Touches
Even everyday routines can seem more special when little touches are added. Surprise your child with a little note in their lunch. Decorate the table with flowers and candles to make dinner more meaningful.
The simple things that show your family your care and appreciate their cooperation during this busy time can make all the difference when it comes to staying connected.
Jennifer Applin is a freelance writer and will soon be the mother of six young children born within a 5-year span. Her writing focuses on strategies for busy parents to juggle it all.
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