School’s out, the kids are home, and families everywhere are preparing to celebrate the upcoming holidays—this is the perfect time for you to spend quality time with your family. Here are some useful tips on being purposeful and maximizing the gift of spending time together.
BE PRESENT:
We’re all bombarded with distractions—work, chores, phone calls, changing the car oil, and more. When spending time together try to remove as many of these distractions as possible and block time to just focus on your family. Being present sends the message to others that you’re interested, they’re important, and you love them. Kids know when your mind is elsewhere, so give them the gift of your uninterrupted attention—you won’t regret it!
UNPLUG:
One of the best ways to be present with your family is to unplug from electronics. With its ever increasing popularity, screen time and social media are becoming a child’s #1 companion (and same goes for adults too). Set the example by putting down your phones, turning off the TV and focusing on your family members.
TELL STORIES:
Everyone loves the story of when Uncle Bob fell in the river or little Timmy was chased by a porcupine! Tell stories of your adventures, your funny moments, your family traditions, or favorite childhood memories. Stories bond families together with laughter, life lessons, and good memories.
CELEBRATE EVERYTHING:
We don’t always need a holiday break to spend time together as a family. Look for ways to celebrate everything—birthdays, good report cards, catching big fish, sunny days, and the list continues. Celebrations give you the opportunity to build each other up and strengthen your family.
ASK QUESTIONS:
Kids love being asked questions. Kids love when someone shows interest in their lives. Kids love sharing their thoughts, dreams, and ideas. Ask them questions. Kids, you can ask your parents questions too—you may learn something new. Questions promote communication, cultural values, and connection between family members.
PLAY:
The old adage, “A family who plays together, stays together” is true. Whether it’s playing a game of Uno, wrestling with your kids, reading a book together, hunting for grouse, or playing hide and go seek—take every opportunity to play with your family. Play sparks creativity, promotes intelligence, improves mental health, and teaches life lessons.
For more information on suicide prevention contact:
- Division of Wellness & Prevention Zhiiniidzelt’aey Project
- Call us: 1.800.478.6822 • (907) 452.8251 Ext 3177
- Email us: Prevention@tananachiefs.org