By Deborah Shelton
Family meetings provide opportunities for feelings to be aired and validated. They also allow younger children to feel they are an important part of the decision-making process when it comes to family vacations and other major and minor family functions.
Before the first meeting commences, set a few ground rules such as:
* Speak in a calm tone.
* Avoid name-calling, finger-pointing, and sarcasm.
* Turn off the TV, radio and telephones.
* Allow each person to voice his or her concerns and ideas.
* Listen to all opinions before making a decision.
* If a person voices a complaint, they must also bring to the table
at least one possible remedy to the situation.
Locations for future family meetings may also be brainstormed at the first meeting. Here are a few examples:
* Circle Time
Very simply, sit on the floor together, in a circle. Designate an
object as a "talking token". This can be a small stuffed
animal, a necklace to be worn, a hat, or any other item that will
be passed around. Whoever holds the talking token may speak. Once
they are finished, they must pass the token to the next person.
* Restaurant Rendezvous
Take turns choosing a favorite restaurant to host your family meetings.
For this option, choose an afternoon or evening in the middle of the
week, or at off-peak times, to avoid heavy crowds. End the meeting
before dessert arrives, so everyone can indulge their sweet tooth
happily.
* Hobby Haven
I know of several families who hold their meetings at places that
cater to their favorite hobbies. For instance, one family conducts
their meeting at a bowling alley. Once the meeting is over, they enjoy
bowling together. Another family combines their gathering with their
love of books, by meeting at a café in their favorite bookstore.
And yet another family I know holds their weekly meeting after a joyful
round of put-put golf. This option combines family communication and
fun.
However, and wherever, your family decides to host the meetings, remember this all-important point: Always end each meeting with a hug!
Visit Deborah's website for more family-friendly ideas:
http://www.fiveminuteparent.com