TIPS For Families

Building a Strong Family

Written by: C. Gigi Gardner
University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension

How do you build a strong family?  One of the very first things let everyone know that you Love them.  How do you do that, besides just saying it?  You can start by telling them, so they hear it when very small, until old.  Have family meetings to see everyone’s point of view.  You might discuss important events or items, set down at the table and eat at least one meal together everyday, go to church as a family, if it is a priority for the family.  Involve the whole family in large decisions such as a move, for a new job etc.  The teenagers may not like it, but it will help the transition if you ask their opinion.  Always tell them you love them every night, even if you are a little frustrated with them.  Always wish them to “Have a good day”.  You may be really disgusted with them, (especially teenagers), but they need to hear it the most.  Once in a while remind them what you do provide them with in their lives, house, food, clothing, family, an opportunity to get an education, and to live in a country that is “Free”.

How do you get to these things?

EXAMPLES:

  • Take a walk outside, enjoy the air, trees, birds, or what ever there is outside
  • Write a note to tell each member how much you appreciate them and what they do
  • Prepare each member their favorite meal, just another was to say “I Love You”
  • When moving with children, if you have a choice of schools, let them help make the choice
  • Always hear all sides of the stories in a big discussion
  • Be the parent, not always the friend
  • Pick one night a week to be “Family Night”( play games, watch a movie together, talk, laugh, look into the future and dream together)
  • Vacation(plan it as a family); where to go, what to do, who to meet, what to see, how to get there
  • Talk to and LISTEN to each other
  •  TAKE TIME TO BE A FAMILY AND ENJOY!!!!

Try having a “Family Night” one night a week for a month see what happens?

(Pick a night everyone will be home and turn the television off unless you choose to watch a movie together).

If you wish to leave feedback about this TIPS for Families, click on the TIPS Feedback Form at the bottom of this page.