Christmas season is one of the best times to strengthen the bonds in the family. It’s the time we get to spend with our family and loved ones the longest and spending time with people often creates lasting memories that strengthen our bond.
Here are few tips to help strengthen the bonds this season:
Do things together as a family:
Simple right, of course, you thought about it already. Doing things together as a family is a sure way to glue lasting memories. Spend time together shopping or in cooking in the kitchen.
Have fun as a family:
Rather than spend the whole of the holiday with your phones and television, or ears plugged in, spend at least one night during Christmas with the TV off, and have the family gather together to play a favorite game. Or you could watch a holiday movie together.
Share stories and family traditions:
I remember each time my late grandmother came to visit during Christmas, she always had stories of our ancestral lineage to tell, that gave me a sense of pride to have had such noble individuals in my bloodline. I still doubt some of the stories though.
If you can, have grandparents around as they would share tales of past generations and family traditions which would strengthen values and beliefs.
Reply with a Hug:
Acts of kindness and encouraging words are a great way to express appreciation. A hug or heartfelt “thanks” reinforces your love and support for family members. Don’t be stingy with handing out thanks and hugs when they are needed.
Avoid Unwanted Guests:
As much as possible, decide the number of guests you want to visit your home, and plan towards the number, entertaining too many, may leave you with no time for a one or one conversation with your children. If you are traveling home for the holiday, engage with your children even among the many relatives, do not leave them alone in their own world. I know, it’s that time to take a break from all those parenting, yea, so have fun with your children.
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This article was first published on 28th December 2017 and updated on January 4th, 2018 at 10:40 am
adepeju
Adepeju Adenuga is a writer (considering where you are reading this, makes perfect sense). She holds a Masters Degree in Literature in English from the University of Lagos.
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