Family meetings can be an anchor point in a busy week or month.  It’s a great way to connect and deal with any issues before they become problems.

1.  Try to set a regular time—once a week or once a month.

2.  Have an exercise book and somebody to take notes.

3.  Try to follow a basic agenda that is balanced for the different age groups in the family.

4.  Sit at a table with no distractions ie. no TV, radio, no things on the table or no toys to play with.

5.  Have somebody ‘chair’ the meeting.  This can change each time but needs to be taken seriously and not just a clown fest.

6.  Start with a ‘positive comment’ for everybody—go around in a circle.  Try to encourage each member of the family to listen to each other.

7.  Discuss the issues that are brought up and try to stay positive and encouraging yet allowing openness and conversation.

8.  Finish on a positive note or with a fun activity.

9.  Stick to the decisions made at the meeting during the coming weeks ahead.

Give it a try and let me know how you go.