Families Benefit From Family

Unity

A family that understands the importance of family unity knows that it takes some effort. No matter

the situation, at some point the group will have to work their way through some tough times. Having

the good building blocks of solidarity and respect for each other will allow the family to get through

these challenges.

Everyday life gets busier and busier

which makes spending time together

more and more difficult. After-school

activities, parent commitments to

outside obligations and both parents

working make it hard to connect with

each other on a daily basis. All family

members need to make a commitment

to working at family unity. This is not

just for parents to have unity with their

children but that the parents can have

unity with each other as well.

Having the whole family sit at the dinner table at least a couple of nights a week is a really big help.

All the members can update each other on how their day is going and what problems they might be

having. This get-together also gives everyone a chance to know what is going on. Direct

communication works better than just notes on the peg board.

No one is allowed to ever be disrespectful to another. Showing respect to each other makes every

member know they have worth. Make sure that all the members understand that speaking badly of

each other is not allowed. This of course goes for parents as well. Don't be disrespectful of other

members outside of your immediate household. If you have a problem with a relative deal with it

without being negative and disrespectful.

Be willing to set aside one night a month to have some special time. If board games aren't your

thing, how about something like bowling? It's a lot of fun and gets the whole group together. Movies

are not a bad choice once in a while but you want an activity where conversation can go on. Some

other choices might be going on a short hike, a family walk, or a bike ride.

Learn about the benefits of choosing a skilled professional to provide Marriage and Family Therapy.

You can find out about the methods and techniques used by the therapist to provide effective and

lasting family counseling today.

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Parents have to have a good relationship. Family accord starts at the top. By supporting each other

and respecting each other, parents show their children how a healthy relationship works. Children

can then understand that this is how to treat others.

When your child is talking to you, tune out everything else in the room. Really focus on the child and

what they are saying. They will know how important they are to you and that you care about what

they are saying.

If someone in the family has a problem with someone else, get it out in the open and deal with it.

Nothing destroys unity like a grudge. Get unresolved problems out in the open for discussion and

find a resolution. This applies to extended family members. It is important that children understand

that problems can be handled without resorting to hateful words and nasty comments.

Get out of the house together. Have outings that everyone enjoys. It can be inexpensive but get

together to do something. Camping or hiking is one way to go. Another could be to check out a local

attraction that your family has not been to yet.

Building family unity is something every group should want to do. It is so easy to get off track as life

throws things at you. Keep focused and stick to the plan to cherish and enjoy great time together.