Family Meetings

Enhancing cooperation and closeness is the number one purpose of family meetings. Ideas for family meetings are outlined below:

Every member of the family can decide to meet once a week. Time should be constant, no room for vacillating. Every one must agree to a specified time. Just like business schedule, so this time should be in the heart and mind of the family members.

Interruption can’t be afforded this time, so any distraction laid aside, example, phone switched off. Your children will know how serious you value this time, thus play along.
Agreement should be met every member, not by majority. Everyone must agree on the same thing. Sometimes decision cannot be made, then promise yourselves to table it in the next meeting.

A leader and secretary is mandatory at every meeting, but must rotate to different person handling the post in the next meeting. The leader responsibility is to run and make sure every member is aware of the meeting. Supporting the leader is what the other member should do, by being punctual, maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Records are taken by the secretary in an orderly manner.

Pleasantries are used in the beginning of the meeting, usually started by the leader, welcoming other members of the family. Parent should teach their children to say thank you, when they receive compliments.

List of what to be discussed should be kept close by, so every other member see it and prepare for it, for the next meeting. Any situation that arose during the week that’s worth deliberating on, should be written down for the next meeting.

Problem solving usually have time of it’s own. The leader can ask if anyone have any problem. Parents should let their children know that if there is anything in the house or the rules that need amendments, they should also provide solution.

A family meeting is a time to make relationship stronger, so plan activities before the meeting.
Family meeting must not be done during meal time. Place vital to hold this meeting, should be in the sitting room.

The leader should find fun ways to end the meeting. The meeting can end by everyone participating in a game, taking a snack etc.