In The 10 Building Blocks for a Happy Family by Jim Burns (pg. 29), 63 practical ideas are listed for spending time with your children. Over the next three weeks, I will list out the ideas for you and your family to try. The list is specifically created by children aged 6-18 of activities they would like to do with their parent or parents. I realize that you may already be doing some of these, and others only happen during the school year. But I encourage you, if you try these out, please respond to the blog and let us know how they went. Enjoy!

1)Make daily phone calls.    2)Plan weekly dates.    3.Establish special traditions.    4)Attend their games and plays.    5)Drive them to school.    6)Put together puzzles.    7)Watch a special TV program and eat popcorn.    8)Write them notes.    9)Take them on a business trip.    10)Take photography lessons together.    11)Play tennis.    12)Skip rocks and have a contest.    13)Write a letter to God.    14)Walk the dog.    15)Read a good book together.    16)Go out for breakfast or doughnuts.    17)Take pictures.    18)Go to the park.    19)Visit the library and ask the librarian a bizarre question.    20)Develop a new laugh together.    21)Visit the zoo.