Family Time Matters
Many people have deep financial concerns.
Many people have crazy busy schedules.
Many people are just trying to get through the day-to-day.
In the midst of all that we can NOT let our families suffer!
- Do you realize that only 66.8% of American men had a job last year. That was the lowest level that has ever been recorded in U.S. history.
- The average American now spends almost 23% of his or her income on food and gas.
- U.S. home values have fallen an amazing 6.3 trillion dollars since 2005. Over 6 trillion dollars in less than 7 years!
- According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, currently at least 8 million Americans are at least one month behind on their mortgage payments.
- The average household debt in the United States has now reached a level of 136% of average household income. That means for every $100 of family income they owe $136.
Parents – to your kids, your presence matters. Being there counts!
Your presence is a sign of care and connectedness.
- Studies have shown that families who eat meals together, play together and build traditions together – thrive.
- Studies have also shown that families that eat together at least four times a week have a greater chance their kids will perform better in school. (Just 4 meals a week, that’s less than 20% of meals)
- Most children find just as much joy in the little things as they do in life’s big events, meaning you don’t have to take your kids to Disneyland for them to enjoy being with you!
What can families do together?
- Worship together – get in a church / be consistent.
- Pray with them every day. For some reason, my kids get a kick out of being prayed for LAST.
- Do (at least) a weekly family devotional. Use Bible cards, Bible stories, whatever.
- Take them with you when you run errands. My kids call these outings.
- Have one-on-one time with them. I date my girls weekly. Friday breakfasts are our dates.
- Create traditions – weekly, monthly, seasonal (Birthdays are a big deal in our house)
- Take vacations (save money, go camping)
- Play ball together – go to the park (No $$$$ Needed)
- Help them develop a hobby (my kids love cameras & pictures)
- Give them responsibilities around the house (dishes, trash / wash cars)
- If they are young, hang their art work up around the house
- Kids love to get mail – send them a note!
- Get beyond yourselves – help others – DO IT AS A FAMILY
