Secrets to a Healthy, Stress-Free Family

Ah, family life

Dirty socks on the floor, that empty toilet paper roll (again!)—they can become sources of stress that build into real discontent. Add juggling your kids, parents, partner, and job—all during a recession—and it’s no wonder we’re short on fun. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. Our simple do-it-today steps will help you build a strong, happy, healthier family.

Fun up family meals

We know that eating together can boost achievement in children, lower the chance for eating disorders in girls, and lower depression rates in both girls and boys. But that doesn’t mean meals have to be serious, formal affairs. Simple, humorous rituals are what children remember as adults. Try a monthly “backward day,” serving breakfast for dinner and vice versa, or watch Saturday-morning cartoons together over breakfast. “Silly things that don’t cost a dime will bring you closer together,” says Michele Borba, EdD, author of The Big Book of Parenting Solutions.

Stay home, stay together

Tape a note to the telephone that says "No!" to remind you not to spread yourself too thin, especially during the holidays. It's fine to make cupcakes for the school party, but do it with your child. And staying home for a night of reading books or watching movies may be a lot more meaningful to your family than a flurry of parties. "Reading aloud, in particular, is a great way to stimulate family conversation," Borba says.

Be the cool parents

Creating a welcoming space for your kids and their friends is one of the smartest things you can do, so install a basketball goal and stock up on board and video games and healthy snacks. "As your kids get older, they tend to befriend others with similar values and interests," Borba says. "You can find out a lot about your child by who they hang with."

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