Creating Real Family Connections

Life is busy

Focus on what is really important - family

Don’t take it for granted

Make it happen!

• Take the time

• Take the energy

But who has extra time or extra energy?

•Small amounts of time•Little bits of effort

Mini-vacations

• Museums

• Parks

• Picnics

• Library

• Day trips

Create Traditions

• Special nights

• Food as a connector

Establish a Hobby

The family that plays together stays together!

Look Outdoors

• Walks

• Gardening

• Porch sitting

Limit technology use

Show affection freely and frequently

Talk - Talk - Talk

Creating Real Connections in Families

Worth the Time and Effort

Sources

• Achord, B., Berry, M., Harding, G., Kerber, K., Scott, S., and Schwab, L.O. (1986). Building family strengths — A manual for families. Lincoln, NE: University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Departments of Human Development and Family and Conferences and Institutes.

• De Frain, J. (1999). Strong families around the world. Family Matters, 53, 6-13.

• Eisenberg, M.E., et al. August 2004, Correlations between family meals and psychosocial well-being among adolescents. Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, 158, 792-796.

• Glick, P. (1988). Fifty years of family demography: a record of social change. Journal of Marriage and the Family, 50:861-873.

• Rupered, M. (1989). Family vitality: Characteristics of Strong Families. Lexington, KY: University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service. (HE 7-138).