As my kids have grown, I’ve often feared we’d become one of those families. You know, you see them at the restaurant, the distant gaze, far off looks in their eyes…surrounded by… silence.
So, we instituted something my kids have grown to love, The Conversation Jar. Every family member puts in several questions. And since our age span includes a three year-old, a six year-old, a nine year-old, and well, us adults (no age disclosure needed)- the questions cover a wide array of topics. At dinner time, we break out The Conversation Jar and ask a couple questions.
Everyone loves to hear their question read…
We all laugh as we answer silly questions about our favorite frozen yogurt topping, or whether we think Sponge Bob would be able to take out Phineas and Ferb in an all-you-can-eat hot dog eating contest.
I mean, I can’t guarantee that my pre-teen daughter may not roll her eyes at the jar in a couple of years. But for today, it works. And I’m a firm believer that if you can keep the conversation going, you can keep the relationship growing.
What little ideas do you have that make a big impact on your family?
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Noelle Larson is a mom still searching to find the “balance” between her spiritual journey, family, ambition, inner peace, world peace…all while trying not to blink so she doesn’t miss one minute of her beautiful, messy life. Noelle writes at metromom.org where she journals her crazy days chasing after her kids and husband, deep thoughts, and captures her latest adventures.
Thanks Noelle, That’s a great idea. I think sitting at the dinner table is so important and it is a great time for our family to discuss the good and the bad. I have tried hard to stay away from pulling out the trays and sitting in front of the TV.
I love this idea, Noelle. I especially love that it includes all the different ages of your kids. Thank you for sharing!!
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