Forever Fun #3

The more children we have, the more I realize how important one-on-one time is with each child. I have gotten to know my children's personalities, their interests, and their relationships with others more in depth by spending one-on-one time with them. We have implemented a "Daddy day" and a "Mommy day" with our children. We calendar these in at the beginning of each month. The kids rotate, so if they went with Daddy last month, then they'll go with me this month. We have four children, so I get to spend time with two children one month (each on their own day) and my husband gets to spend time with the other two children (each on their own day). It is amazing how taking time to have one-on-one outings create a more peaceful home and a feeling of unity.

Forever Fun #2

To make bedtime a more pleasant experience, implement a bedtime routine. A family devotional is a great way to close the day, and it invites the spirit into the home. Our devotionals usually last around twenty minutes, and it is one of my most enjoyable time of the day with our children. We read from the Book of Mormon, say prayers, recite an article of faith, and sing a song. It really is pretty simple, and it's a family tradition that the kids look forward to each night.

Forever Fun #1

Have you ever wondered how you can get your kids excited about doing their daily jobs/chores? We implemented this concept several months ago, and it is still holding strong! Each month the kids have their one big chore they are in charge of. My kids are quite young, so the jobs are relatively simple and achievable. I do it monthly, but you could modify it to weekly if you desire. If they accomplish their job each day during the month, without complaining, they earn a "mystery motivater". The mystery motivater is kept in an envelope beside the job chart. Inside the envelope is the prize. . .which varies from going out for ice cream to going on a family outing like the park or swimming etc. You certainly can modify this to your family's ages and likes, but it's worth trying if you need some fun motivation in family household responsibilites.