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Building Strong Families

The family who modelstime together

focuses on making family time quality

time. They work and play together and

enjoy one another’s company. They have

learned how to balance togetherness and

separateness. Couples make it a priority

to find time together for themselves

apart from children.

The family who modelsspiritual well-

beingshares a high degree of spirituality,

including common values and morals.

They spend regular devotional time

together and find ways to acknowledge

God in the ordinary and special events of

their family life.

The family who modelsthe ability to

cope with stress and crisishas learned the

meaning of “resiliency.” They adapt

readily to changing circumstances, teach

their children problem-solving skills,

provide non-critical support, and foster

togetherness.

1. If you and your family were to form family goals, what do you think they would be?
   What goals would you include?


2. Do you think it’s realistic to treat family like “company”? Why or why not?


3. What other qualities do you think characterize a strong family?

Books:
The Five Love Languagesby Gary Chapman. (Northfield Publishing, 1995)
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Workby John M. Gottman and Nan Silver.
(Orion, 2004)
A Parent’s Guide to Building Resilience in Children and Teens: Giving Your Child Roots
and Wingsby Kenneth R. Ginsburg. (American Academy Of Pediatrics, 2006)

Resources

Questions for Thought