Do you spend enough time with your family?
In addition to work and errands we are now bombarded with cellphone interruptions, emails and social media temptations.
Family Day is a great time to reflect on meaningfully ways to engage with family.
One way to connect with family is through playing a game together.
In addition to invaluable family bonding, games can be a great way to de-stress and allow conversations to flow more freely.
Family game time can also provide children with an opportunity to build social skills and good Sportsmanship. These social interactions can increase communication skills and confidence. Games can also help develop, math, spelling, vocabulary, strategy and logic skills.
Also, you and your children are likely to receive a healthy dose of dopamine, serotonin, endorphins and oxytocin.
These four natural chemicals in the brain influence happiness and can be released through anticipation, laughter, success and a few high fives and hugs. The perfect formula to game playing fun.
Often we think of the word “work” as an opposite to the word “play.” However, if we stopped playing, stopped laughing, and stopped having fun with others I think life would get a little depressing.
Play is important. It is important in your workplace and with your family. So this Family Day and every day take time for play.
Whether it’s indoors, outdoors, games, crafts or jigsaw puzzles find time to personally connect with your family. Put away the cellphones, turn off the screens and enjoy.
submitted by Evelyn Gould, certified play expert
