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It may seem odd to apply a communication idea more closely associated with the boardroom , but there is no reason why families shouldn’t have meetings too.

All too often, conversations are snatched on the way in or out of the door as we run to keep up with our busy lives. As children get older, their schedules compete with ours (and usually win!) and time to talk, as a family can be scarce.

Scheduling in time to discuss family matters, raise issues of concern and agree family rules and values can be valuable and fun. Family meetings can also be the ideal forums to develop discussion, negotiation and problem solving skills in our children, not to mention sharpen up our own.

1. Start early – as soon as your children understand they are part of a family and can cope with simple communication. If you have very young ones too, the older ones can take turns to be their “voice”.

2. Issue a fun invitation A FAMILY MEETING
Place: Dining Room Table Time: Friday 7.00pm
Refreshments: Provided Dress: Casual

3. Include plenty of positive things on the agenda, rather than moans and gripes - holiday ideas, redecoration options, discussion about family values and ideas for new menus (and cooks!) for Sunday lunch.

4. Use age-appropriate language. A five year old may not understand the term “family values” but they will be more than able to engage in a conversation on what they like about being part of this family or what makes this family special.

5. Rotate the chairing roll. Initially, this is likely to be taken by a parent, but it should not remain that way for good. Children can take on this role and family meetings always work best when the adults participate, discuss and problem solve rather than just referee.

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