Tips for Forging Strong Family Bonds
1. Family prayer is the “super glue” of family unity. Sunday Mass, grace before meals, daily rosary and Scriptural reading, etc…
2. Family meals are fundamental. Even if it means having a snack and waiting until later for everyone to be present; this encourages heart felt sharing and cordial conversations.
3. Kids need to feel and perceive that the parents genuinely take interest in their daily struggles and difficulties. They are not there just to punish but also to guide and mentor.
4. Older siblings need to step up and actively engage their younger siblings in their world. My older brothers personally taught me how to play hockey, baseball, basketball, football, golf, swimming and tennis. They invited me to play with their friends and constantly offered “brotherly advice” on how to deal with mom and dad.
5. Valuing and encouraging the different talents/gifts of each family member.
6. Quality time together- 1 week vacations, family outreach (soup kitchens, nursing homes), recreation (skiing, golf, tennis, camping, canoeing, etc…).
7. Parents should instill a sense of humor and a positive spirit in the home.
*Please see the link below for a 20 minute talk that I recently gave on this topic:
https://www.box.com/shared/2cade1018ffcf9b62a69
