The New Year is a great time for reflection and reset. And for families, it’s a great time to get back into routines and schedules after a joyful but hectic holiday season. Usually I find myself reflecting on changes for myself, but recently I’ve been thinking about family resolutions. What can we do to strengthen our bonds and quality of life for the whole family? Doesn’t that sound lovely?
In an effort to really get the experiment going in full force, I want to get input from the kids on what they’d like to add to the list. I doubt it will be eat more vegetables, but their opinions will be valuable nonetheless. And I’ll venture to guess that their responses will be most joyful and exciting.
If you want to bring this conversation to your family, I suggest reflecting on these few things:
What brought you all the most joy in 2019? What felt like something that was weighing you down you want to let go of? And what are the things you all wish to do that you can’t seem to make time for?
Need a few suggestions for family resolutions? We’ve got a few ideas! Remember to make this a joyful and fun list. This shouldn’t feel restrictive or like a new chore on the list!
Explore more: We all get into the routine and comfort of our going to our favorite places. Make a goal for your family to find the best _____ in Orlando and seek it out! That blank can be filled with anything you want – from playground, to best ice cream, farmer’s market, outdoor movie night, or indoor obstacle course!
Weekly Ritual: Find a night (or morning or afternoon!) that works for you to have a family bonding time. Choose an activity you can do together: go for a family walk, movie night, game night, or painting time. Commit to doing that together every single week.
Get outside: Your kids need to be outside, exploring, seeing, and feeling nature. Plan for unstructured play time outside in the yard, at the park, or go for a nature hike. There are huge benefits for your kids emotional and physical health when they play outside. And for you too!
Spice it up: Dinner time can be rough. Feeding kiddos is not for the faint of heart. Maybe you want to add more veggies to their plates, or fiber, or you know anything that isn’t a chicken nugget or mac ‘n cheese. Include the kids in meal planning or cooking to help them step outside their comfort zones.
Read together: I want to raise great readers. And the best way to make that happen is by reading to them, with them, and near them. Commit to reading more books together. Take a trip to the library to get new books to freshen up your collection!
May we suggest: Our Tips on Raising Great Readers
Digital detox: Maybe you allow your kids to be on digital devices and maybe you don’t. But I’ll be you’re on them… and often feeling guilty about how much. Set a day (or morning! Or few hours!) of the week where you’ll put your phone away and be present. We promise you won’t miss anything… the internet will still be there when you get back.
This post is sponsored by Lake Forrest Preparatory School, an organization whose mission we love. We are proud to partner with companies that provide such incredible services to local families. Thanks for supporting companies that support Momlando.
Lake Forrest Preparatory School aspires to create an atmosphere where school is an extension of the family: a school environment where teacher, parent, and student interactions involve solid connections, enriching lessons, and responsibility on the part of all three participants. Throughout preschool, elementary, and middle school, LFPS instills healthy choices and character education. Located in Maitland, LFPS is a private school for families throughout Orlando looking for community and a top notch education.
