With the Victoria Day long weekend around the corner, you may be looking forward to relaxing and reconnecting with loved ones. But in the hectic pace of Spring activities (particularly with kids), reconnecting may require more foresight and planning than expected. Take into consideration the following tips for prioritizing family time, so enjoying those precious moments together isn’t as rare as long weekends are (all too rare!)
1. Organize your obligations into lists. Instead of trying to do it all, figure out which household tasks need to be done (your “Do” list), and which can wait (your “Do Later” list). This will rebalance your family’s time so you can spend more time all together, instead of you and/or your partner taking on a disproportionate amount of housework. And make sure to be realistic and honest when evaluating your time. Don’t add something to your “Do” list just because you feel guilty.
2. Unplug when you’re at home. Instead of checking email, working on projects, and texting friends or coworkers when you’re home, turn your phone off and shut down your computer, to give your family your undivided attention. After your kids and partner are asleep, you can log back on and tackle work responsibilities without distraction.
3. Make new traditions. Getting everyone together is usually on the radar for a holiday, but you should aim to spend at least one night a week with your family on the regular as well. For instance, set aside Friday nights for DIY pizza and games with your kids. Other new (or revived) traditions that you could try include:
- Trying a new restaurant together once a month
- Taking turns choosing a new movie to see together
- Going for a family bike ride
- Having a Sunday brunch together
- Relaxing in your hot tub on a chosen night of the week!
4. Encourage spontaneity. Don’t be afraid to break from tradition by trying something different during your family time. In addition to encouraging suggestions from your kids and partner, you should be creative in your brainstorming of something completely new. The more fun everyone has, the more likely they will be to prioritize family time as something to look forward to.
Missing the hot tub needed for number 3? (Making new traditions or reviving past ones?)
For a limited-time only, discover a collection of hot tubs 40 years in the making:
DISCOVER THE ANNIVERSARY EDITION MODELS
