7 Ways to Set Up a Family Rhythm
Hi TFH families!
Wow! What a week! I’m sure many of you find yourselves in a spot somewhat similar to us, or at least you could agree this week has brought about an interruption to normal life…. In our house, we have gone from discovering we’d be schooling at home, to one parent working part-time from home, to both parents working full-time from home. While we count ourselves blessed that we have the ability to do all of those things out of the comfort of our own home, it has proven to be quite overwhelming at times. I thought I’d share with you 7 things we are doing to not just survive this uncertain time, but to begin to thrive as we find new rhythms. Why seven? Well, since there are 7 days in a week, I thought you could try one each day this upcoming week and see how it goes!! If you’re feeling super brave, share what you’ve tried via Instagram and tag @tfhkids so we can all share in the victory!!
1. Set Up a Dedicated Space for School Work
While working in bed or on the couch might feel comfy and cozy, it may not be conducive to producing the best results, or getting the most out of the assignment. We aren’t trying to replicate what goes on in the classroom (thank God), but kids do thrive on routine and structure. Plus, creating stability during times that feel uncertain can go a long way.
2. Create a Workspace for yourself
Carving out a quiet (ish) place away from some of the action of the home can be super beneficial when working from home. It allows for quiet to focus and stay on task. I know for myself if I am at the desk in the office, I am less likely to be distracted by the dirty dishes or the laundry waiting to be folded on the couch. It doesn’t have to be an office though! It could be as simple as a chair and folding table in the corner of the bedroom too!
3. Create a Flow for the Day or Week
I say flow because it sounds less rigid and allows for changes to be made in the moment, but still provides some parameters so everyone knows what to expect. In our house, our flow is wake up, screen time, breakfast, an hour of school, snack, outside or inside movement of some kind, lunch, an hour of school, 30 minutes of reading, snack and then FREEDOM! Though on a day like today, it feels like summer out and it’s sunny, so at noon we are just getting into our flow because we’ve been outside enjoying the beauty of it before winter returns…
4. Get OUT!
Outside, that is! Even if it is a 10-minute walk, just do it! You will feel SO. MUCH. BETTER. About, well, everything. I may be exaggerating a tiny bit, but taking just a 10-minute walk can improve energy, focus and digestion (just to name a few). Plus, with all the germs floating around, you really can’t go wrong with some fresh air.
5. Move It
In the same vein as getting outside daily, just simply moving that beautiful body God gave you goes a long way! I know for me I am at my best when I have put in a little sweat equity. It doesn’t have to be a hard-core workout (that is my fave, but to each their own). There are so many resources on YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, etc. for ideas and inspiration. If workouts aren’t your thing, then put on some music and dance with your sweetie or parade through your house clapping and singing with your kiddos.
6. Stay Connected
This is so important!!! Just last night, I met via ZOOM with my small group book club. I was actually a little nervous about doing something so new and foreign (I’m a little behind the times where technology is concerned, ok?). I was nearly in tears as I saw the sweet faces of friends I hold so dear and miss so much and found myself so incredibly grateful for the times in which we live! Similarly, I watched as my 3rd grader was able to connect with her teacher and classmates on Google Classroom this morning and read a book together.
7. Make Memories
For the majority of us, we have never lived through something so life altering! We have a unique opportunity to create wonder and lasting memories with our families during this time! The possibilities are really endless and will look different for each family because we are all so unique! It could look like dressing up like you are going to a wedding, or putting out candles and the fancy china (or real plates if you usually use paper) at dinner time. It could look like watching a movie all together (no phones in hand, but being in the moment). Create a family art piece using things you already have- scrap paper, wrapping paper or ribbon, noodles from the pantry, paint, really anything goes! Create a date night in just for you and your spouse. Gotta keep that flame alive, people!
Hope these 7 things help you get organized and inspire you to make the most of this time!
Hannah Thomas
Greece Kids Director