be kind, be kindred

rituals and traditions for the entire family

Interaction and connectedness play a vital role in the long-term health and overall well-being of individual family members. With the increasing pressure to balance health, work and conscious time with your children, finding the energy for extracurricular fun can be quite a challenge. Studies have shown that children who develop healthy exercise and eating habits while they are still young will be more likely carry these lifestyles into their adulthood. One way to make healthy living fun is to create new rituals or traditions and repeat them throughout the year. Highlighted here are a few ideas that you can put into action today, ensuring the balance and resilience of your entire family. 

support family learning

Study a foreign language then put your skills to the test with a vacation to the country where the language is spoken.

Make more art! Start by snapping photographs and use the pictures to decorate the home.

Strengthen your mind and memory with word games such as Scrabble, Boggle or Trivial Pursuit.

Hang a “word of the week” on the refrigerator and offer rewards when it’s put to use.

nurture your network

Set aside one day each month to connect with out-of-town relatives.

Sit down as a family to write hand-written letters and receive them in return.

Start a family blog to share updates and laughs with loved ones.

Plan annual reunions and catch up with your extended family face to face.

venture outside & play

Spend at least thirty minutes a day playing outside, regardless of 

the weather.

Take regular one-on-one evening strolls and inspire moonlit bonding.

Get to know your city’s public parks and learn to throw a Frisbee.

Follow the change of seasons by visiting local orchards and farms for apple- or strawberry-picking. 

uphold rituals & traditions

Dine together as often as possible.

Offer gifts outside of birthdays and holidays for no other reason but to give.

Enjoy movie marathons featuring only film classics.

Research your family history and create a family tree.

You also might like to read about deepening the family connection