Why family time is important?

Family time has always been critical to maintaining family cohesiveness. Spending quality time together allows parents and children to get to know each other and learn from one another. In-person interaction is a requirement for pure family bonding; in a world where cell phones and social media have taken the majority of family members' attention and reduced family time significantly, many families are not reaping family time benefits. Quality time impacts the family relationship and dynamics, but it also impacts the family member’s mental health. Family time benefits the parents, the children, and the community. 

BENEFITS

• Self-Confidence– Belonging is a significant factor in building self-confidence. The best and most influential group to belong to is the family unit. Parents teach specific skills to the children to build self-confidence, and the parents improve their self-confidence by teaching their children and seeing their achievements. 
• Communication– We all need someone to talk to during the good times and especially the bad times. Family is where communication lines are open, and there is an active ear ready to listen. Also, communication skills are taught in the family, which improves communication with others outside the family. 
• Support– Additionally, during the good and bad times, affection and reassurance are needed. As humans, there is a need for affection for happiness and security. Family members show support and comfort through hugs and praise. Support is given to children by parents and vice versa. Support in the family causes a positive effect in all areas of their lives. 
• Memories– Memories can keep things around and alive forever. Thousands of memories are created from family time that teaches life lessons and reminders of the family's love and support. 
• Mental Health– Strong family support and interaction significantly lessens the incidence of mental illnesses and offers increased assistance when there is a mental illness. 

In short, family time ought to be an exciting and pleasurable way to be healthy and happy parents and children. All family members should know they “matter” and will be loved unconditionally. This type of family love is reflected in life choices and behaviors. Making time to connect with family is an investment that produces positive outcomes. Ideas for family time include dinner time, movie night, cooking time, games night, camping, family talk time, attending an event, and so much more.