How to Organize a Family Night

Spending quality time together as a family can be difficult especially with the many demands of work, school and extracurricular activities. One of the most effective ways to have quality family time is to set aside a specific night each week as Family Night. It is not difficult to organize a Family Night. Having a quality evening together each week will not only strengthen the family but also lead to a meaningful tradition that can be carried on for generations to come.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Gather all family members together over the dinner table or in the family room.
2. Include a short discussion on a specific topic that is beneficial for the family such as family finances, where to go for the next vacation or who's who on the family history tree.
3. Plan an activity that involves everyone. For example, play a board game, take a walk in the park, have a mini talent show, perform a service project or make some arts-and-crafts projects.
4. Keep the atmosphere light and engaging. Talk and laugh together.
5. Remember: no discipline during this night. It is a time for engaging activity, reconnection and fun.
6. End the Family Night with treats. If nothing else, a plate of warm cookies and a glass of cold milk always hit the right spot!
   

Tips & Warnings

• It takes discipline to keep to the commitment. Don't give up.
• Make sure everyone has a say on what he would like to do during Family Night. Take turns as leaders for Family Night. You may have to help younger children when it is their turn.
• Remove all distractions such as telephones, video games, television and other potential hindrances. This time slot is strictly for family time.
• Invite relatives, neighbors or close friends to join in your Family Night.