Family Fun Month is celebrated every August and the goal is much like it sounds; to encourage families to make time for each other and do things you can all enjoy together. If you have recently gone through a divorce or are in the midst of one, fun may be the last thing on your mind. However, it’s important to stay connected to your children during this time, and, in honor of the month, here are some fun ways to do so!
1. Do their favorite things
This one is pretty simple. Plan something that your child or each of your children already loves to do and have everyone participate (including you). It can be a sport, a hobby, or just going to the movies, whatever it is will be even more special if you enjoy it together.
2. Share an interest
Along the same lines, you could learn to do something your child likes to do. For example, if they love reading, find a series you could read together and have your own book club. If they play an instrument, you could have them teach you, or learn an instrument that accompanies theirs. Or, if your child loves art, perhaps join a painting class together.
3. Let them pick
With the divorce, it’s likely your children have felt untethered like they have no control over these big changes happening. Giving them the opportunity to pick how you enjoy something as important as family time gives them a bit of that back. Plus, it ensures you’re doing something they truly want to do!
4. Volunteer together
Often we get so wrapped up in our own lives that our problems seem bigger than they really are. Not that divorce isn’t difficult to process for all of you, but it shouldn’t define your family. Volunteering is a great way to get perspective. Not only is it quality time together, but you’re also making a difference in other people’s lives and there’s nothing more rewarding (and fun) than that! Plus, if you have older children, they may need to complete community service hours anyway.
5. Make your daily dos extra special
Having fun as a family doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go big and spend big. You can make the things you do every day extra special too. For example, get the children involved in cooking meals with you. It could be as simple as picking recipes, or have them help you cook or both! During your time in the car between pickups/drop-offs for school and sports, you could come up with some fun games to play. Other ideas could be having them help you in the garden or with decorating for holidays.
6. Enjoy quiet time together
Again, you don’t always have to be doing something big to have fun together. Often, the most special times are in the quiet moments where you can relax and just be. Perhaps set aside time each evening, even if it’s just a few minutes, that’s device-free and distraction-free where you meditate together, take a walk, or just talk.
Moving Forward After Divorce
While Family Fun Month is a great reason to put these tips into action, don’t stop there! You need each other more than ever as you process and heal from the divorce and continuing to make time for family can help you move forward even stronger. So, take your favorites from this list and make them a tradition you can enjoy together for years to come!
To see how our mediation services can help with your divorce or co-parenting, contact our experienced team today for a free consultation.
