The beginning of a new year carries with it the reflection of looking back, along with the hope of a fresh start and second (or third) chances. As we move into a new year, we feel the need to promise to do better, often through New Year’s resolutions. But by the time February rolls around, many of us have forsaken the resolutions we promised to keep.
Maybe one of the reasons we fail to keep these resolutions is because we attempt to tackle them alone. So instead of making an individual promise you might soon forget, why not make some family resolutions this year? You can help hold each other accountable while being successful and growing closer in the process. Here are some family resolutions that you can aim to achieve this year.
Have a weekly family game or movie night
Set a day each week when you can play Uno or Go Fish or teach the kids a game you used to play. Once my parents taught me how to play euchre, rummy, or canasta, that’s all my sister and I wanted to play. Or make it a video game night, showing the kids that you’ve still got it on Wii bowling. And if you don’t want to play a game, try watching a movie. It will help you connect as a family and help your kids develop their strategy and social skills.
Commit to one healthy eating change
Trying to change your entire diet overnight isn’t realistic, and we all know it. Make small steps as a family, like adding a salad or different-colored vegetables to your dinner or switching from butter to olive oil when cooking. Or skip sodas altogether. These small changes will become habits meaningful to the whole family, and you can always continue to add more healthy choices or drop what isn’t working for you.
Hold dedicated screen-free time
Nowadays, it’s close to impossible to escape the world of screens. But setting aside an hour each day or a whole day a week for everyone to put away their phones and other devices might show that you don’t miss them at all. Maybe start with turning off phones and the TV when you’re eating meals together, and you’ll see just how easy it is to spend quality family time.
Exercise together
While sometimes tricky, this one can be the most fun. Whether you have a basketball hoop in the driveway, bikes in the garage, or your hiking gear ready to go in the car, finding something to do outside with your family can be so rewarding. Go for a run, toss a frisbee, go ice skating. Show your kids some of your old tricks, and then have them show you what they can do. You’ll have fun together, and you’ll get lots of exercise and outdoor time at the same time.
Make each child feel special
While it’s great to have family time while crushing your resolutions, it’s also important to celebrate your kids’ individuality. Speaking from experience, sibling competition can get exhausting, but showing your kids they are valued and special can mean a lot. Try making a resolution to do something once a month with each of your children.
