As a full-time working family, it can be challenging sometimes to create memories and find those moments of joy that only come with togetherness. Now that we are a family of four, life just feels complete. We are so thankful for the opportunity that God has given us to raise our girls, but the hustle and bustle means we must be very intentional with how we spend our time with them. Below are some simple ways to be more intentional with family time.
Have Supper at the Kitchen Table
Growing up, supper at the table was pretty standard for families. However, these days, it’s an unusual concept. This is so unfortunate because sharing a meal together, looking at each other, discussing your day, and having meaningful conversations are all important things that are now taken for granted. This may be the only part of your day that you get to spend with your family during your work week. Supper time should be family time.
Go Outside
Getting out in nature is a simple way to connect with your people, especially children! But even if you don’t have children, breathing in the fresh air and admiring God’s perfect design with someone special in your life is a great way to draw nearer to Him, and in effect, draw nearer to the one(s) you love.
Read Aloud to Each Other
Unpopular opinion here. The actual “screens” may not harm you or your children, but the time spent on screens instead of quality time with each other definitely will! Why not read a book to your children instead? Again, if you don’t have children, read to your significant other. This might seem silly in this day and time, but historically, it was a very common practice. Follow-up your reading time with questions to each other and you would be surprised how much everyone will benefit from this time together.
Share a Hobby Together
A lot of the time, couples have completely different interests. God created us as individuals, so it’s no surprise that we like different things. But try to find an activity you can share together as a couple or with your children. For instance, my husband can teach our children to fish and I can teach them how to knit. This gives us quality time spent with each other sharing our hobbies, yet we are also teaching our children valuable skills. It can also be something simple like baking. Whatever you have an interest in, try to share that with your family. Spend some quality time together learning and having fun, too!