The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “family” as “the basic unit in society traditionally consisting of two parents rearing their children; also: any of various social units differing from but regarded as equivalent to the traditional family” for example, a “single-parent family.” Value, on the other hand, is the quality or worth of a thing. According to Susie Duffy, M.F.T to combine the words family and value yields a reference to a traditional set of social standards defined by the family and a history of customs that provide the emotional and physical basis for raising a family: values reinforced by our spiritual, social or religious beliefs and traditions. How children learn, grow, and function in the world depends greatly on the foundational values they learn in their families.
As children grow, they are exposed to the values of others in places like school, playgrounds or social events and may become confused. It is up to the parent to redirect and remind them of the importance of respecting and valuing others. Psychologist Erik Erikson has identified the three basic needs in life as work, love, and play. If asked, most of us might say the family comes first, but how do we measure up in the areas of work, play, and love? Many times, we are too over-worked to attend to showing love and engaging in play. However, nurturing relationships, spending time enjoying each other and working to maintain the values and standards we hold dear would be of great benefit to our families.
Spending quality family time builds strong family ties, makes life-long memories, and builds self-esteem and character in our children. Spending quality time does not mean you have to spend lots of money though. The value is in the time itself that you spend.
In “Family Time Rocks” Deanna Sletten shares five reasons to value family time.
- It builds self-esteem in children. This increases their feeling of self-worth. Activities like taking walks, going for bike rides or playing a game, are inexpensive ways to enjoy each other’s company and build a loving environment.
- It strengthens family bonds. Families who enjoy group activities share a stronger emotional bond as well as an ability to adapt to situations as a family. Family time is an opportunity to put your devices on pause and share hobbies, read books, or watch a movie together.
- It develops positive behaviors. According to a study by the University of Minnesota children that spend more time with their parents are less likely to experiment with drugs, alcohol, and engage in negative behavior. A simple thing like sharing meals together lowers the risk of unresolved family conflict which leads to other problems.
- It creates happy memories. Children with happy family memories tend to grow up to create a loving environment for their children. The best lesson a child can learn is how to work, and play with others. These lessons are usually learned in the family unit and help our children grow to be competent adults and parents.
- It helps parents and children reconnect. Most of our lives are hectic, and no household has the same schedule. Spending family time is an opportunity to reconnect. It is a perfect time to engage in family conversation and model life lessons like fairness, empathy, and compassion without conflict.
The configurations of families may vary, but one thing that never changes is the importance and value of the family unit. Now is a good time to reinforce the power of the family, for as the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius noted: “The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home.”
By Gwen Marshall
Happy Birthday Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
January is also a time for Springfield Public Schools to commemorate the great work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Springfield Public Schools would like to encourage Parents and students to spend the day in service to others. We are looking forward to seeing you at the Martin Luther King Jr. March & Celebration.
Coming Events:
January 1 District Closed
January 2 Winter Break (Students Out)
January 3 Professional Day (Students Out)
January 20 Martin Luther King Jr. Day (District Closed)
Second Semester: Jan. 6 – May 23 (91 Days) Third Quarter: Jan. 6 – Mar. 13 (47 Day
