Families who hang out at home together seem to be happier than those who spend their free time bonding over activities or vacations, according to a recent university study.
There's something special about routines. Building memories through actions that become repetitive, yet meaningful, bring families together.
"That may be because when the brain is focused on processing new information — such as taking part in an unfamiliar activity with unfamiliar people in a new location — less ‘brain power' is available to focus on the family relationships," said assistant professor of child and family studies at Baylor University and lead author of the study, Karen K. Melton, Ph.D.
Road trips and mini-golf can certainly help build family relationships and fill up scrapbooks, but quality time at home should not be ignored.
Looking for new ways to spend time with family at home? Try these:
- Take on a home DIY project.
- Cook together (kids too).
- Plant something.
- Make a list of classic movies to watch on rainy days.
- Put on a board game tournament.
- Plan and make homemade gifts for upcoming birthdays and holidays.
- Write letters to friends who live far away.
- Read together.
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