Is there an imbalance in your work and family life? If you think that you’re in need of some quality time with your family, you shouldn’t just wait for it to happen. Sometimes, you’ve got to take charge and plan ahead. You’ll have to take the necessary steps to bond with the most special people in your life.

Here are ten sure ways to make sure that you’ll be able to keep your family ties stronger than ever.

Family Calendar

It’s been said many times, but the best way to spell “love” is through T-I-M-E. The sure way to put all your family plans into fruition is by creating a calendar that puts your family on the top spot. Plot weekly play dates keep for the kids and date nights for your significant other to have special bonding moments with them, especially the latter. These “save the date” days should be non-negotiables.

A family project

It’s a no brainer that doing things together is the key to quality bonding time with family, so you might as well make it a productive get-together. It doesn’t have to be something BIG just yet. Look no further and find projects you can start in your home. A mini home renovation project is a good idea, like repainting the house, spring cleaning, or conducting a yard sale. You can also try a small summer business. The important thing here is that you will get everyone involved.

Movie night

Another thing to add in the weekly calendar is the regular nights in the family living room is movie night. Imagine yourself with your family huddled together under a thick blanket, passing a bowl of popcorn, while watching your favorite movie or TV series. There’s no better way to de-stress but with your family.

A granny flat

A unique idea at most, but bringing in grandparents in the equation can actually double the family-bonding experience. Not only can they be emergency babysitters, but they serve as wise mentors for growing children. It’s not also about what you can get from their availability, but it’s also about what you can do for them. Having them near would be efficient in keeping track of their safety and health. They’ll also be happier to spend their days with family instead of being cramped up in an old folks’ home. Granny Flat Finder is a great place to start your flat search!

Mandatory dinner time

A lot of families take this for granted, but spending dinner time together as a family paves the way for a closer family unit. It’s the best time to talk about each others days and just enjoy each others company. The tip is to always wait for everyone to be on the table no matter what happens. When you encourage your kids to develop this habit early on, you won’t have trouble giving them a curfew when they’re into their teens, because they’ll be looking forward to dinner time with family.

 Build family traditions

Birthdays, holidays, and family accomplishments should be celebrated and vocally praised. Doing this would encourage everyone to do their best, be themselves, and embrace their family even more. Don’t overlook these little opportunities to spend more time with each other. You’ll appreciate the effect of celebrating family traditions in the long run.

 Find a family sport

Keep the family active and healthy by choosing a sport all of you can play. A few suggestions would be bowling, mini golf, baseball, or soccer. For a more laid back approach, how about yoga? If all of you have a very busy and active lifestyle, you can opt for puzzles or board game nights.

Giving back

When you have time to do all these great things together, yet another meaningful way to bond is by extending your blessings to others. Find a charity or orphanage that you would want to invest in as a family. You could spend family occasions there or simply plan it as a big family event. Doing good as a family will definitely strengthen the family’s core foundation.

Family Photoshoots

Since everyone’s into selfies these days, why not a family photoshoot? You can print out these family selfies and compile it into a collage. If not, hire a professional photographer and set a day solely intended for a creative family photoshoot. You can send these out in the holidays to other friends and family.

Monthly Vacation

Being in a different setting every month will open doors for new adventures and experiences as a family. If it’s financially possible, plan family out of town trips every month or at least every few months. Everyone always needs to take a break from life’s everyday stresses. Still, making new memories can come at a cheap cost like a Sunday family picnic or a trip to the local beach.

A family with a tight bond can overcome any of life’s struggles. Making your family life the number one priority in your life is an investment always worth making. Hence, don’t let a hectic work life get in the way of creating a tight bond with your family.