1. The family that travels together stays together
An interesting study done by the University of Massachusetts Amherst found that families who travel together aren’t just more bonded than their counterparts, but also that couples were less likely to divorce when they took vacations with their kids. By the way, “traveling” doesn’t have to mean “getting on a plane and heading off to an exotic locale.” It can be something as simple as hopping on a bus and taking a free walking tour of your town. The key is to just experience a new place together. So, don’t let money stop you from reaping this benefit.
2. Family vacations make your kids smarter
True story! You can learn more about it here, but long story short, experts confirm that taking vacations together boosts your children’s brain power! It makes sense if you think about it. Anything that shakes up your usual routine gives your brain a chance to learn something totally new.
3. That post-vacation glow is contagious!
Experts found that people who come home from vacation feeling all relaxed and happy help spread those good feelings to others around them. What does that mean for you as a family? Basically, you’ll be feeding off each other’s positive energy and helping those happy vibes remain long after you’ve put away the last of your vacation laundry.
4. Just eating dinner together can keep your teen on the right track
Those that can’t get away for a long vacation (or even a quick weekend getaway), take heart. This study (which is actually a study of multiple studies) found that, in families that eat dinner together regularly, teens were less likely to smoke, drink, or use drugs. According to researchers, “Young people whose families routinely eat meals together spend more time on homework and reading for pleasure Frequent family meals have also been related to better nutritional intake and a decreased risk for unhealthy weight control practices, substance use, sexual intercourse, and suicidal involvement.”
5. Spending time with you is important for your teen’s well-being
Speaking of teens, a 2012 Penn State University study found two interesting things. First, despite being famous for their independent streak, most teens today do continue to spend time with their families. Second- and most important- the time they share with their parents and other adult caregivers is actually very important for their overall well-being.
6. Getting outdoors together helps your child focus better
Research shows that just spending 20 minutes outdoors together helps improve your child’s overall concentration. It makes sense if you think about it because you’re giving them screen-free time to use their own imaginations and really connect with the world around them. Plus, there’s just something about fresh air to chase away brain fog and invigorate your mind, body, and spirit.
7. Spending time with your kids makes you more compassionate
Family time isn’t just great for your kids, it can make YOU a better adult. At least, that’s what one series of experiments found. Adults who spend time with children are kinder, more compassionate, and more generous. As clinical psychologist, Desreen N. Dudley told VeryWell, “The suggestion is that children may hold the key to influencing more positive decisions that adults make that can benefit society as a whole.”
8. Quality time helps moms learn to communicate with babies better
If you’re suffering from major mom guilt because you can’t figure out why your newborn is crying, this may help ease your mind. Moms do not have an innate ability to decipher their baby’s cries, according to this Cell Press study. It’s actually something we have to learn, and the only way we can really do that is to spend time with our babies. That doesn’t mean you can’t work outside the home or ever leave your infant’s side, though, so don’t take it the wrong way. That way leads to even more guilt! To me, it means being present when you’re with your baby, and spending some one-on-one time bonding.