Make time for Fun
Really, what is better than hearing the laugh of a child! It is amazing if you look around a waiting room full of adults and children alike. The tension is written all over the faces of the adults if a child is crying.
Now, feel the excitement while the child laughs, that belly laugh we all love so much. Feel the happiness in the air. There are smiles all around the room, and people join in the laughter. We need to incorporate that infectious laughter into our daily lives.
During a separation it can be a very difficult time, and it can be hard to incorporate “fun time”" with the kids in the daily “to do lists”.
One great way to always make time for fun with the kids is to create a family fun jar. This is an awesome way for the whole family to have input into what types of activities everyone enjoys. Just make it clear to the kids the amount of money that can be spent on the activities. Sitting around the dining room table one night, bring a jar, and let everyone decorate it. Next, everyone gets a few pieces of paper, and has the opportunity to write fun activities on their paper.
A picnic, playing a board game, or throwing the ball in the yard are just a few of the things that families can do that don’t cost anything. But, of course if you have a few extra dollars your list could include; mini putt, glow in the dark bowling, a movie and of course a great day at Wonderland.
After everyone has decided on their activities, and the jar has been decorated, it is time to throw all the pieces into the jar.
Once a week, twice a month, or even once a month, (the more often you can do this the better for the family) pull out the jar and pick your fun adventure. Every week someone else gets to take a turn in picking the activity. Once chosen, read and be prepared to enjoy.
Both children, and adults need to keep their sense of belonging when the families are changing. This is just one of the many ways to keep the kids happy, and give them a sense of making decisions in the family.
With the family fun jar there is only one rule…..laugh till it hurts!
Beverly MacKay
Family Law Clerk
705-252-3817
