Although November is proclaimed officially as Family Life Month, the summer months provide many opportunities for families to spend quality time together. Whether you load up the family for a week long family vacation or reconnect with aunts, uncles and cousins at a family reunion, the end result can be memorable and rewarding.
Last weekend was a special time in the Krug family. Our newest grandchild, Robert Gary Krug, arrived Friday evening, July 19th, in Lincoln, Neb. Adam and Aubrey had their own fireworks display welcoming their first child into the world, as the Cornhusker games were being celebrated in a field across from their hospital window. The timing was perfect for us to spend some time Saturday and Sunday bonding with our little guy. Our granddaughters from Great Bend were enthralled with their new cousin and Great-grandma Krug was excited to meet her great-grandson named after his beloved “Great-grandpa Bob.”
A bulletin from K-State Research and Extension addresses how important it is to not “put off” spending time together. While there is no “money-back guarantee,” it is clear that strong families have similar family interests and have found that spending time together strengthens their family. Families with young children must begin early to develop a pattern or habit of spending time and doing things together. Young children growing up in a family that spends time together soon realize that in their family they can have fun. They feel good about being with the members of their family and gradually learn that their siblings and parents have much to share with them that enriches their life. Over time a secure feeling develops as a result of being with one another.
We have an excellent series of handouts titled, “Celebrate your Family,” which target important considerations in building a strong family. Sub titles of the six handouts are: “Family Strengths,” “Time Together,” “Family Communication,” “Appreciation,” “Weekly Meetings,” “ and “Family Rituals.” The pamphlets contain great ideas that all families could benefit from. There is no charge for the series; simply stop by our office at 1800 12th Street next week and ask for your copy.
Donna Krug is the Family & Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Barton County. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu