Struggling to communicate? Have a family meeting

It may seem a little formal, but if your family is findiing it difficult to communicate with one another, or some family members feel that they’re not being listened to, a regular family meeting may be the solution.

Ohio mum Sarah tried it after family mealtimes couldn’t resolve important issues.

Her two daughters, aged 9 and 14, were unsure at first, but now everyone gets involved and takes the weekly meetings seriously. They prepare an agenda, all TVs and phones are turned off, everyoone gets to have a say, and action points are made that everyone can agree on and see during the week.

Issues can range from chores and bedtimes, to vacation plans. Embarrassing issues are left out - there are other times those can be addressed.

They establish ground rules so that the meetings go smoothly: courtesy, respectful, no interrupting, offer a solution to any problem brought up.

These meetings also allow parents to model good behaviour and life skills to their children.

Read the whole article: Family meetings help resolve issues and build skills