Before your child reaches adulthood, you will have spent around 936 weekends together. If we subtract the first few years (when weekends often revolved around sleep, feeding, and diapers) and factor in about 30 weekends lost to sickness, plus another 200 when your teen is off doing their own thing, you’re left with just under 400 weekends to truly enjoy with your kids.
Now, I don’t want to make you feel guilty, but let’s consider how you’re spending those precious weekends. Are they filled with relaxation, family bonding, or rejuvenating activities? If your answer is a weary “no,” then it’s time to make some changes.
I had an epiphany when I discovered that a local sports coach scheduled a two-hour practice for 6-year-olds on a Sunday morning at 8 a.m. Think about it: this time conflicts with families who attend church, those who cherish a lazy morning together, or parents who work unconventional hours and need that time to recover. It made it clear to us that weekend extracurricular activities just weren’t a fit for our family.
We made the decision to limit weekend events, and while it can be challenging, it’s been worth it. Our weekdays are already packed with activities and constant driving, leaving little room for relaxation. We were tired of the chaotic carpooling, juggling schedules, and late dinners. So, why carry that stress into the weekends?
Of course, if your family thrives on weekend sports tournaments or lengthy events, more power to you. I truly admire the dedication it takes to manage those busy weekends. However, the thought of spending countless hours on the sidelines or in auditoriums is exhausting to me. Just seeing those busy families on social media wears me out.
Our family does engage in some weekend adventures, but we keep them to a maximum of ten weekends a year. Yes, there are occasions when we need to attend events for clubs or sports, but I often feel a tinge of sadness when I have to sacrifice our family time for those commitments.
As my children grow older, I’ve come to appreciate the value of slow weekends at home—where they can hang out with friends, ride their bikes, nap, and even get a little bored. Those simple weekends spent together are the ones I treasure the most. Reflecting on how quickly time passes (my oldest is now away at college), I would give anything for a quiet Saturday afternoon with all my kids sprawled out on the couch, even if they are just bored.
If you find that your weekends are overwhelmed with obligations, don’t hesitate to simplify. Gradually cut back on unnecessary commitments and redefine what a fun weekend looks like. Fun doesn’t always have to mean being busy. Sometimes, it’s the quiet moments that lead to the best memories. Trust me, bored kids can create their own adventures, just like we did when we were young.
Finally, master the art of saying “no” to others and even your kids. Reclaim your family weekends—you’ll be grateful you did, and your kids will be too (most of the time).
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Summary:
Reclaiming our weekends as families is essential to fostering strong bonds and creating cherished memories. By eliminating unnecessary commitments and embracing downtime, parents can nurture healthier, happier family dynamics. It’s time to prioritize relaxation and connection, making the most out of the limited weekends we have.