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Family resolutions you can all keep

By Carrie Kube 3 min read

The Christmas gifts have been unwrapped. Yet, as parents, we know that gifts will be forgotten about within a few short months. When we start to think about New Year's resolutions, we can agree that more family time together is the best gift of all. In the All Pro Dad blog, the author gives us family resolutions that we can do year-round. It will help you foster more time together in very healthy ways.

Host a weekly family game night. The possibilities are endless. From board games to puzzles, indoor or outdoor games, to video game nights. Our family loves Sorry, Trivial Pursuit Live, and Grounded For Life. You can also "up your game" and host weekly tournaments. Your family can bond by learning from one another which will help your kids develop their strategy and social skills.

Make healthy eating changes. Adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet, eliminating sodas, and drinking more water. Next, cook with each other to make healthy homemade meals. Cooking together can bolster a love of learning in science and math.

Eat dinner as a family. Coming together for a meal teaches the importance of listening, sharing, and compromise. According to Time Magazine, the statistics are clear: Kids who eat meals with their parents are healthier, happier, and better students.

Exercise together. Get outside, go to a gym, or do something you and your family will enjoy. Go for a run or toss a Frisbee. You'll have fun together as a family, and you'll get lots of exercise at the same time.

Play! It seems so simple, but get down on the ground and play with your children at their level. Build a fort in the family room with couch cushions and sheets. Grown-ups can be silly and have imaginative fun with the kids. In those moments of silliness, you can have serious bonding and build bridges for heartfelt talks.

Try something NEW as a family. Doing something new together will give you a common memory – visit a local museum, take in a new movie, or attend a community event. Get out there and get adventurous together.

Make each child feel special. Resolve to do something once a month with each of your children. Celebrate your kids' individuality that makes them feel special and valued.

Time is the best investment. Invest wisely in 2024!

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Carrie Kube is the Early Childhood

Area Director for Hardin, Marshall,

Boone and Story counties.

Starting at /week.