| November 11, 2008 |
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Make Family Time Count
by Candice Wagener
Don't feel bad about limiting social engagements to schedule time with your family.
I know I can speak for most families when I say life is busy! In my full-time job as Assistant Director of the Learning Gardens Child Development Center, I am surrounded by families who are living in a constant, delicate balancing act with the different aspects of their lives. They are dedicated to their career, putting in the time and effort it takes to raise kids, and finding a little bit of free time to do the things they love—which you have to do to be successful as a parent and a person! And it can be done with some simple time management and thoughtful, creative ideas.
Make Time
The first step to maximizing time spent with your family is limiting your schedule. Stick to one or two activities for the kids and make sure they are things your children really enjoy doing. And don’t feel bad about declining other invitations or engagements—your family time is important and should take priority on your calendar.
Eat Together
Research shows that eating family meals is important for healthy, well-adjusted children. Family dinner may not be a practical option for many young professionals, but why not opt for a family breakfast? If your family members are getting ready around the same time each morning, try to coordinate your schedules and start your day together.
Go on Vacation
Save and use your vacation time. Those with young children might fine this difficult if you’re missing a lot of time at work to stay home when they’re sick. However, you don’t necessarily need to plan a long, extended-stay vacation. What about a three- or four-day weekend up north, in Chicago, or at home?
Stay at Home
Enjoy your time at home. Yes, there are chores to get done and football games to watch on the weekends, but why not do these things as a family? Children as young as three can pitch in with light housework, such as sorting laundry or setting the table. And when you’re done with the chores, round up the gang for your own game of football outdoors.
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