Make Good Memories!
Apr 13, 2022
Make Good Memories!
Welcome to Family Time! Whether you can’t wait for it to start, or can’t wait for it to be over, I’m here for you.
These next few weeks will undoubtedly create memories for you and your families - some may last a lifetime. (Wouldn’t it be cool if we could choose which memories our children would remember and which they would forget?)
Power of association is huge. For our children, Pesach will either be welcomed or dreaded in the future based on their experiences right now. Your anxiety will be theirs. Your excitement will be theirs.
No pressure, people!
“Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things." (Robert Brault)
Love that line!
Bonding with our family is definitely worth our energy. Spending time with family isn’t just “cutsie”. Aside from the obvious benefits of teaching our Traditions and Value Systems, there are very real emotional and physical benefits of family time.
Some of the research-based benefits include:
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Improves overall mental health.
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Helps children perform well academically.
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Lowers risk of behavioral problems.
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Boosts self-confidence.
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Helps kids learn future parenting skills.
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Models effective conflict resolution.
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Promotes adaptability and resilience.
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Enhances physical health.
- Ideal way to teach and model appropriate social skills (as per my Virtual Course: Social Skills Made Simple.)
Quality family time provides a sense of belonging and purpose for parents and children. (Bonus points when you involve the extended family system.) This is an opportunity for parents to create healthy connections with their children - and for the family to figure out how to thrive as a team during this YT season and beyond.
But, listen, I’m a family therapist. I knoooow this time is not blissful for everyone, and may bring on stress and anxiety. So if upcoming family gatherings make you break out in a cold sweat, know that you’re not alone.
I’m here to tell you – you got this! (Of course real abuse/neglect situations need professional intervention.)
My advice to all of us is:
Let. Things. Go.
Be your best self. Remember the importance of self-care. Give yourself space when you need it. And if you have to hide in the bathroom for a bit, no judgement here!
But don’t forget to turn up the music and dance! That’s a must.
Create memories!
Your future generations will thank you.
❤️, Shifi
