THE PULSE

We want your family to have a great 2022 together. We also know you’re really busy, and it can be hard to make time to do things as a family, even when they’re things you really want to do.

Committing to a small change together can be a great way to support each other in the new year. Here are three small, easy changes you can consider choosing as a family resolution to make it your best year yet.

1. Go for more walks

We all feel better when we get our steps in, and taking a daily walk as a family is a great way to connect in a low-pressure environment. As kids get a little older and have trouble talking about their feelings, knowing there will be a time every day when they can talk to a parent can be helpful for keeping lines of communication open. Plus, it’s fun to talk about all the things you see on your walks together.

2. Less screen time, more outdoor time

Instead of scrolling through your phones or watching TV, maybe you can eat dinner in the backyard once a week, or go to the park together for a picnic once a month. Some fresh air can do wonders for your mental health, and it’s a great excuse to hang out as a family. You can also send the kiddos outside to eat lunch on the weekends or to do art projects – they’ll get that great Vitamin D, and no mess in the house. It’s a win-win!

3. Less yelling, more telling

Losing your temper once in a while is totally normal, but many families could do with a resolution to keep your voices down when talking to one another. Rather than yelling across the house, go find the person you want to talk to so you can tell them rather than yelling. And when things get heated, a reminder to “tell, not yell” can be helpful for everyone in the family.