Support one another - Most families have different interests, but this doesn’t mean you can’t value each other’s hobbies and support one another. A family who takes the time to attend matches (though they aren’t interested in one) will share the triumphs and the failures together. Everyone should go to as much as possible regardless of their own interests and therefore, every one is sharing in the experience and it gives you things to talk about too. 

Eat together - Dinner time is the one time when families should come together and talk. Everyone should have a chance to discuss their day and share their worries or funny stories. Family life is busy and depending on parents schedules it can be hard to get time together at the table but if you can – do it regularly, as it matters. 

Be silly together - Don’t take each other too seriously and accept the slagging and be silly together. Laugh, have fun and roll around in the grass. Take time to listen to one another and laugh at each other’s jokes or lack of! Of course, when your kids are older it is harder to converse as they may prefer to be left alone but encourage them to spend time with you and do things that make you all happy. 

Respect each other’s space - Yes, you don’t want your kids to hide in their room all day but equally, you need to respect their need for space and privacy. As the kids get older it is good if you give them that “quiet time” and respect it. Parents know how noisy the world can be and children are no different. Let them chill out listening to music or hanging with their friends but have your family time too so everyone knows there is equal amounts of free time and family time. 

Take a break when you need to - You or your children may need to take a break from one another and that is ok. The importance of hobbies is something that shouldn’t be overlooked as perhaps, your children and indeed – you, are a better parent/child because of a hobby. Don’t feel guilty for having that “me time” and encourage everyone to have their break away from one another. If it is a quick walk around the block or a trip to the gym do whatever it is to be a more relaxed parent and let the kids do their activities too. 

Help each other - This goes without saying but everyone in the family should help each other and share the workload of chores. Everyone should take turns with dinner clean up or prep. The kids should take their own chores seriously and both parents need to help with the family schedule and house chores too. Helping one another gets everything done quicker so no person is left overloaded and stressed. Be there for one another and pay attention to each other, if someone’s mood is off – why is that? Find out why and help each other to be happy and therefore, your family will be happier.