Spend time together - Family Navigator

A well-functioning family is based on love, communication and quality time spent together. However, in today's fast-paced world, it is often difficult to find time to really be together and pay attention to each other. However, the time spent together is essential not only for the children, but also for the parents. But why is it so important and how can we implement it in everyday life?

The benefits of spending time together

Stronger bonds : Spending time together helps you get to know each other better and strengthen family bonds.
Better communication : Joint activities give us the opportunity to talk, listen to each other and express our feelings.
Sense of security : Regular time spent together gives children a sense of security and helps them to be emotionally stable.
Learning and development : Children can learn new skills during activities done together, and we can also set an example for them as parents.
Shared experiences : Shared experiences and memories enrich family life and last forever.

How can we spend time together?

Planned family programs : We regularly plan joint programs, such as trips, museum visits, or simple walks in the park. These occasions give us the opportunity to be together and enjoy each other's company.
Shared meals : Have regular family meals where everyone can share what happened to them that day. Conversations during meals strengthen family bonds and improve communication.
Family game nights : Organize regular board game nights where everyone can participate in the games. Games are not only fun, but also develop problem-solving skills and teamwork.
Common hobbies : Let's find a common hobby that everyone enjoys, be it gardening, sports, crafts or cooking. Shared hobbies strengthen our sense of belonging and enrich us with new experiences.
Reading and storytelling : Let's read books together or tell each other stories. Reading develops children's imagination and vocabulary, and also provides the basis for joint conversations.
Joint projects : Let's start joint projects, such as making a family photo album or shooting a home movie. These occasions give us the opportunity to work together and achieve common goals.
Regular conversations : Make time for regular, deeper conversations as well. Ask the children about their feelings and thoughts and listen to them carefully.
Volunteering together : Take part in charity activities together. Volunteering not only helps others, but also strengthens family unity.

Examples of spending time together

Let's organize a joint movie night at home once a week, where everyone can choose a movie.
Let's prepare dinner together, where everyone can participate in preparing the food.
Let's plant a tree or flowers together in the garden, which we will take care of together.
Let's go for a bike ride or a walk in nature together.

Spending time together is not only fun, but also strengthens family bonds in the long term. Let's try to find as many opportunities as possible to be together and enjoy each other's company!

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How do we talk about this with our children?

The basis of a well-functioning family is quality time spent together, which strengthens family bonds, improves communication and enriches shared experiences. But how do we explain to our children, especially teenagers, why this time is important? Below we give advice and examples broken down by age group.

The importance of time spent together

Stronger relationships : Spending time together strengthens family bonds and helps us get to know each other better.
Development of communication : Joint activities provide an opportunity for conversation, which improves communication within the family.
Emotional security : Spending time together regularly gives children a sense of security and helps maintain their emotional stability.
Positive memories : The experiences and memories gained during the time spent together enrich family life.

How do we discuss the importance of time spent together with our children?

Toddlers (3-7 years)

In the case of small children, we can convey the importance of time spent together in a playful way. Let's explain to them that playing together and telling stories helps us to always be close to each other and stay cheerful.
Example : "When we build this castle together, it's a lot of fun, we always create strange things."

Adolescents (8-12 years)

At this age, children have a better understanding of connections. Let's discuss with them that spending time together will help us get to know each other better and develop a closer relationship.
Example : "I would like us to play a board game together, because then we can get to know each other's thoughts and feelings better."

Teenagers (13-18 years)

Spending time with teenagers can be challenging, as they often prefer the company of their friends at this age. It is important to talk openly and honestly with them about the importance of spending time together and involve them in the planning of the programs.
Example : “I know you like to be with your friends, but spending time together is very important to me. How about choosing a program together that we all enjoy?”

Arguments for teenagers

Better communication and understanding : "Spending time together helps us to understand each other better and to be able to say what's on your heart. This makes it easier for me to help you if you need it.”
Emotional support : "Being together is important not only in good times, but also when difficulties arise. That way you can be sure that you can always count on me."
Balance in social life : "It is important to spend time not only with your friends, but also with your family. It helps balance your life and shows how important we are to each other.”
Common goals and values : "During the time we spend together, we can share our goals and values with each other. In this way, we better understand what is important to the other and how we can support each other."
Memories and traditions : "Spending time together creates memories and traditions, which we recall with pleasure later. These experiences enrich our lives and connect us."

Let's talk with our children about the importance of time spent together and find activities together that bring joy to everyone. Spending time together not only strengthens family bonds, but also helps us live a happier and more balanced family life.

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