Family bonding may be in crisis mode with parents and guardians monitoring remote learning. Students need to be monitored during on-line learning now that schools are closed. Many parents are frustrated with understanding the process. This is a hard time for both parents and children. As children are at home with remote learning available, many think they are on vacation. Thus, they do not understand that are not on vacation and must still do their school work every day. After a trying two hour remote lesson, parents are tired of watching, guiding, and helping with schoolwork. However, they still must socially bond with children. Therefore, they may let students have play screen time. However, while children still attempt to stay socially in contact with friends with facetime, video chat, or gaming, too much screen time is not healthy.

Family Bonding

Between school and work, bonding becomes difficult. As children finish their lessons and have free time, this is a good time for parent/child bonding. Discussions center on their plans for play and the rest of the day. Family games are an important part of ‘shelter-in-place’.  Family card games, board games, charades or a walk/hike are perfect for family bonding and learning together. Also, create a campground in the back yard. This gives the simulation of a weekend trip.

Another activity is to plant a pizza garden.  Older children can organize the planting area and younger children can plant. A treasure or scavenger hunt inside or outside is a fun activity that families do together. Children can plan the activity for parents and vice versa.

No doubt, this pandemic creates a challenging time for both parents and children. Take a moment to remove children away from technology an screen time to enjoy family time with inside or outside activities. Create time to laugh and enjoy during the ‘shelter-in’ time.

As families spend quality time together, a healthy connection and a positive outlook on life grow. Family time for activities helps children to learn how to communicate, listen, and act appropriately.