Dedicated family time is important and beneficial for all members of the family, especially in this modern era where technology often takes a lead role in our lives. Family time is essential in creating bonds, instilling feelings of security, and helping to cope with future challenges. Read on to further understand why family time is so important and for some family fun ideas of bonding activities for the whole crew.
Why family time is important
Builds self-esteem
Children who spend quality time with their parents and loved ones feel more confident knowing how valued they are, which makes it easier for them to build relationships in the future. It also allows them to feel secure and confident in their own family relationships. This alone can help prevent them from seeking negative attention, which can lead to them getting in trouble.
Strengthens bonds
The best way to strengthen the bond with your children is to spend time with them. Families who participate in activities together will lay the foundation to be able to better handle any stressful times that may arise.
Relieves stress
Not only will coordinating fun activities for the whole family take everyone’s mind off of their current stressors, but it also gives each family member an opportunity to talk through them together. Simply being able to chat with your loved ones about whatever is going on in your life can be a form of stress relief too.
Improves communication
Spending time together is the best way to improve communication. Get to know each other, and appreciate the differences in ways of communicating. Research has shown that having a strong line of communication and involvement between parents and children has led directly to higher test scores, superior grades, and better behavior in children.
Creates memories
Making fun memories together as a family is like having a scrapbook in your mind. You want your children’s minds to be filled with lots of positive events from their childhood.
Encourages positive behaviors
Family time gives you the chance to lead by example. You can show kindness and fairness by how you treat each other and how you interact with others. You also have the opportunity to discuss important life lessons that may come up during your time together.
For example, something as simple as being late to a movie and not getting a good seat may allow them to see for themselves the consequences of not being punctual.
Promotes healthy lifestyles
You can also set the tone for healthy lifestyle examples, such as choosing healthy food options and choosing active things to do. You can also teach your children to make healthier life choices during your dedicated time together.
Bonding activity ideas
The positive benefits of dedicated family time are endless. Now here are some ideas to get started. One helpful tip is to pick a day of the week to reserve for a family activity, and stick with it until it becomes a habit that each family member enjoys.
Movie night
Movie nights can be great in or out of the house. For movie nights in, you can host a popcorn and pajamas party. For nights out, you can dress up a little, and go see a newly released film together.
Camping
Camping can be a family activity with many different fun things rolled into one. Even if you choose to camp in the backyard, you can bond by putting up tents and building a fire. You can tell stories over hot cocoa, and make s’mores together.
Group horseback riding lessons
Horseback riding can be a wonderful family activity. You can create memories while building a new skill that improves communication and coordination. You can also participate in competitions based on skill level. These allow you to cheer different family members on as you each compete, bringing a stronger family bond to the surface. Plus, introducing your child to horses can be a life-enhancing choice with many benefits for years to come.
Picnics
A picnic is a classic family favorite that never gets old. Whether it be the park, by the lake, or after a nice walk down a country trail, you are sure to get out of your comfort zone and into some nice family conversations during a picnic. You can plan a weekly picnic as a theme for a whole month, and let each family member that is old enough to participate take turns packing the picnic basket. This can add an element of friendly competition to see who has prepared the best picnic meal.
Game night
Game night can bring out the child in everyone, and create an evening of laughter and fun. Between board games and cards, there are plenty of options that every family member can enjoy.
For more information
At The Pine Hill Ranch, we believe in the value of dedicated family time. We’d love to explore and educate you and your family on the benefits of horseback riding for kids. Let The Pine Hill Ranch customize an adventure for you and your family, visit our page today to book your group horseback riding family lessons today!
