I hope this finds you all well.
What is our greatest resource?
Conservationists might say our forests and waterways.. Economists would look at the stock market. I would vote for our children and young people as our most precious resource.
The most important basic natural resource is the family. There are many ways to bring the family together and make it stronger.
*Have at least one meal a day together as a family. Nothing can replace time together. Even if you make a quick dash for a carry out meal from a local fast food resaurant, sit around your kitchen or dining room table and talk to each other. Try not to use this time to talk to your children about discipline issues, make this a happy time for all of you.
*Set up a "family hour" once a week. Talk about things that interest you. Take devices and put them away for this time; no phone calls, no chats on the phone, no messaging. Make sure that each family member no matter how young has a few minutes to share with everyone.
*Remember parents do not need to give their children all that they ask for, but we do need to listen to them and then make decisions.
Realize also that each family member has to have her/his own time to be with friends or just to be by herself or himself. But also realize that each family member needs the support and closeness of the family unit just as much.
Do not waste our most valuable resource. Give the family the attention and care it deserves.
As always, you and your wonderful children are in my daily thoughts and prayers.
Terri Nicholson, LCPC
School Counseling Consultant