In the Turner household, a big sigh of relief happens when the kids go back to school. This event seems to regulate the schedule for us, and it seems to make life easier not having to plan childcare and activities for every day.
I am guessing this is common in many homes, but should it be?
Your role as a parent is not just to entertain the kids while school is out, but to mold the moral fabric of who your child will become. The job of parenting is probably tougher during the school year, in fact. Making sure your children have a positive outlook when you have little control over outside influence is a daunting task. Children thrive with consistent schedules, and this is a perfect time for us parents to enforce a little consistency for the whole family.
In today’s world, parents taxi kids to school, sports, performances, church and social activities among other needs. Something as simple as a family dinner on a daily basis can be nearly impossible in today’s world. In reality, that nearly impossible task of family dinner should be taking priority over some of the activities today’s families prioritize. Connection while breaking bread with little distraction invokes a primal sense of togetherness for people.
This school year, commit to your family to slow down. Your children need to have your attention, and you need to have theirs. This is a simple action for Men IN Action to commit to. Unplug from your work, and have your spouse do the same, for one hour. Ask your children to come into the kitchen and help while the family prepares and shares dinner on a regular basis. This action will help your children learn how to connect on a personal level. Leave the phones, computers and tablets in another room and turn off the television. Laugh together and enjoy rich conversation about how the day or week has been going. Doing something this simple on a regular basis won’t just help your children grow, but it will strengthen your relationship with your spouse while setting an example of what life should look like for your kids.
Jarod Turner
Executive Director, Avon Junior Athletic Association
A Man IN Action
