Thanks for subscribing to the Houston Family Fun newsletter. In the September issue, I’ll share six tips for making the most of the weekends during the school year. I also encourage you to check out my blog for candid commentary on Houston family life & add your comments to participate in this online community.

Six Steps for Savoring Weekends with Family

Although many children have now returned to the classroom during the week, there’s plenty of time on the weekends to enjoy your family. Here are six steps for making the most of family time during the weekends.

1. Focus. Dedicate specific time each weekend for family time and refrain from allowing other commitments to encroach on that time. Forget about email and text messages for awhile. Pay 100 percent attention to your spouse & kids during this allotted time.
2. Encourage involvement. While parents need to spearhead family time, they don’t have to take on full responsibility. Take turns choosing which activities you’ll complete. This weekend, your son selects but next weekend your daughter picks. Not only does this lessen your load, but it also promotes regular participation by all family members.
3. Plan ahead. Don’t wait until the weekend to decide on the event of choice. A fun Wednesday morning discussion during breakfast or carpool can be brainstorming about what to do the following weekend. What a fun way to get through Hump Day.
4. Spice it up. Try different activities by checking out resources such as 100+ Activities for Houston Kids. While your family may have favorites, you can also explore new activities together. Use the weekend as a chance to expose your children to adventures that they normally wouldn’t experience. You may be surprised when new interests develop.
5. Save money. Web sites such as www.coolsavings.com, www.couponpages.com & www.couponmom.com offer downloadable coupons to events and restaurants near you. Before heading to your destination, check these sites to save.
6. Take it easy. Remember that you don’t have to conquer it all this weekend to be a great parent. Allow extra time for traffic jams, lost shoes and other small mishaps. Make the most of transit time by singing songs or asking your child to help tell a story. Don’t stress over time limitations. Family time is truly a blessing.

Fall Festivals Ahead

Help your kids find awesome autumn adventures, using the book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids. This book is packed with fun ideas for the fall & it makes a wonderful gift to new Houstonians and new parents. Order your book online or pick up your copy at any of these shops: Barnes & Noble, Berings, Borders, Blue Willow Bookshop, Brazos Book Store, Houston Invitation Service, or Olive Anne in the Heights.

Megan F. Salch

"The Kids Activity Queen"

MeganSalch@TellYourTale.com

http:/www.tellyourtale.com/Kids