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regular
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devotional time specify a particular time of the night
to establish a devotional routine with a religious story, share time, and prayer. for young children, you can make this brief but meaningful. as they mature, you can extend the time. whether your house is a mansion or an apartment, be deliberate in making fam- ily time count. as your space enlarges, work to make your family unit tighter and cozier. it?s not about the size of the house or the size of the family, but the size of the love a family feels for one another. ? suggestions for deliberate family time weekly game night playing games as a family is not only fun, but it also teaches children valuable lessons and creates lasting memories. choose a weeknight and establish a family game time with snacks and favorite games. designated screen-free time set apart one night a week or a couple hours each night for some screen-free time. be intentional about turning off the devices and sharing some real face-to-face time. shared screen time and family movie night put away all other devices and gather together
to share in a family movie. establish a tradition of making them special by rearranging furniture, making special snacks, and simulating your own theater. read an ongoing story together choose an age-appropriate classic and read a few pages each night together. get everyone involved by assigning parts and funny voices. if older children are in the family, you may want to read a spiritual book together. family dinners your hectic schedule may not allow for family dinners every night, but aim for some family dinner nights around the table without the tv on. ?is tradition does not have to be fancy, make it your own. you can even cook dinner together! go outside together ?family walks and family sports outside are great ways to connect,? dr. butner insists. being outside as a family allows for exploration and some quality nature time. backyard family campout take your space outside for an evening under the stars. instead of big rooms, share small tents for some family bonding. smores and flashlights make all kids smile. october 2016 | brparents.com 83
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