As a new year begins, many of us feel inspired to set goals that will improve our lives, bring us closer to our dreams, and strengthen our relationships. While personal resolutions are valuable, what if this year we shifted the focus to include family goals?
In a world that often pulls us in different directions, prioritizing experiences over solo pursuits can bring families closer and create lasting memories. This year, instead of making resolutions that center solely on personal achievements, consider setting family goals that emphasize connection, fun, and growth as a unit.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the value of focusing on family experiences and share 10 practical ways to grow closer together, no matter your children’s ages.
Why Family Experiences Matter
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Stronger Bonds
Shared experiences help families create meaningful connections. Whether it’s a simple weekly board game night or a more elaborate vacation, spending quality time together deepens relationships and fosters understanding. -
Shared Memories
Experiences create stories and inside jokes that strengthen your family’s identity. These memories become cherished treasures that your children will carry into adulthood. -
Life Skills and Growth
When families engage in activities together, they often learn valuable skills. Cooking a meal together, building something as a team, or exploring a new place can teach patience, teamwork, and problem-solving in an enjoyable way. -
A Break from Screens
In our technology-driven world, family experiences provide an opportunity to unplug and focus on each other. This shift encourages more meaningful interactions and communication.
Setting Goals as a Family
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Hold a Family Meeting
Kick off the new year by gathering everyone together to discuss what you’d like to accomplish as a family. Encourage input from every member, no matter their age, to ensure everyone feels valued and included. -
Set Shared Goals
Think about goals that focus on togetherness and connection. These could include planning a family camping trip, committing to weekly family meals, or volunteering together in your community. -
Break Goals into Steps
Once you’ve set your family goals, break them into actionable steps. For example, if your goal is to spend more time outdoors, start by scheduling a monthly hike or picnic. -
Celebrate Progress
Don’t forget to celebrate the small wins along the way. Recognize when your family is working together to achieve your goals—it’s an excellent way to stay motivated and excited.
10 Ways to Grow Closer as a Family
No matter the ages of your children, these activities can help foster deeper connections and create shared joy:
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Family Game Nights
Choose age-appropriate board games, card games, or even active games like charades. Rotate who gets to pick the game to ensure everyone feels included. -
Cooking Together
Turn meal prep into a family event. Younger kids can help with simple tasks like washing vegetables, while older kids and teens can learn to cook full dishes. -
Weekly Walks or Outdoor Adventures
Set aside time for regular walks, hikes, or bike rides. Nature has a way of encouraging conversation and helping families unwind together. -
Start a Family Book Club
Choose a book to read together as a family. For younger kids, pick a read-aloud story, while older kids can share their thoughts on a chapter each week. -
Create a Family Gratitude Jar
Throughout the year, write down things you’re thankful for as a family and place them in the jar. At the end of the year, read them together and reflect on your blessings. -
Volunteer Together
Find a cause your family is passionate about and dedicate time to it. Serving meals at a shelter, participating in community cleanups, or organizing a fundraiser are all meaningful options. -
Have a Technology-Free Day
Designate one day a week (or even just an evening) to unplug from devices. Use this time to connect through conversations, games, or outdoor activities. -
Plan Monthly Family Outings
Choose an activity everyone can enjoy—like visiting a museum, going bowling, or exploring a local park. Rotating who chooses the outing keeps things fun and fair. -
Work on a Family Project
Tackle something as a team, whether it’s planting a garden, building a birdhouse, or organizing a family scrapbook. Shared projects build teamwork and pride in your collective effort. -
End Each Day with Prayer or Reflection
Take a few minutes each evening to pray together or share highlights from the day. This simple ritual fosters gratitude and keeps your family spiritually connected.
Building Family Traditions
As you set goals and focus on experiences this year, consider creating family traditions that can be revisited annually. These might include a yearly camping trip, a holiday baking day, or a “first day of summer” celebration. Traditions provide a sense of continuity and belonging that children cherish as they grow.
Closing Thoughts
Goal setting doesn’t have to be an individual endeavor. By focusing on experiences and shared growth, you can create a new year that strengthens your family bond and brings you closer to one another. As you plan your year, remember that it’s not about perfection—it’s about the effort you put into connecting and the memories you create along the way.
Let this be the year your family grows closer, supports one another more deeply, and celebrates the joy of being together. Here’s to a year filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures!