• value of laughter
• plan special family times
• make sure the time is clear of any other commitments for every member of the family
• prevent interruptions from the telephone or other people (unless they are invited with the understanding that it is family time
• Suggested routine for family times
  • try to make it the same time each week
  • spend at least an hour and a half having fun
  • take turns choosing what activity you do (See worksheet)
  • have it coincide with a meal
  • get each family member in turn to choose their favorite menu -when they are old enough, use it as an opportunity to teach them to cook their choice of food
  • make sure conversation and activities are at the level of the children
  • if it is a week night, work out when to fit in homework, music practice, etc. (before or after depending on the age of the children)
  • turn off the TV, or limit it to one program or DVD that you can watch together
• children learn about good and bad behavior from their family
• they learn values such as:
  • thinking about others
  • taking responsibility
  • helping around the house

How can you plan a focused time of play with your child(ren) this week?  Spend some time thinking about your moral compass – where does it point?  Why?