How to Spot Kids' Missing Needs

By Sandy Schroeder

In a very busy world, it is tempting to just try to knock off the tasks as they come up at home and at work. This may get a lot done, but it can also leave some unexpected gaps. Big and little family needs may simply be glossed over as we zoom ahead.

If you think your family could use a little special attention, you might try a weekly meeting in which the family sits around and talks about whatever is happening. When I did this with my family it took awhile to get them warmed up, but gradually they looked forward to these sessions to get in their two cents. At the same time, I was able to spot some things that were needed.

My middle son was really interested in theater, but nobody was helping him try it out. After some talks with his counselor, we were able to arrange a speech and drama class which worked very well. My oldest son was such an outdoor enthusiast that he was not exploring any of the other skills that he enjoyed. With some discussion and effort he worked in some of his other skills, too.

These weekly sessions could be made more appealing by linking them to a pizza night or ice cream run. My family’s sessions started because I needed to get a better handle on what my family needed. You may find weekly sessions will turn up all sorts of other valuable information and help to develop other projects such as these.

Summer trips – Is this the year you drive to a national park and camp? Or should you fly to a key city and do all of the historical tours?

New improved family fitness – Would the whole family benefit from new bikes? Or is this a good time to set up a soccer practice area and hoops on the driveway? Or maybe mom, dad and kids could take a community water sports class.

New family sport – Is this the time to try family boating, paddleboarding or kayaking? Or it may be the time to help kids get started with tennis or golf.

New family hobby – Wilderness hikes or art, photography or cooking classes could become a focus for the whole family. Decide what’s big at your house. Music, science, video games or sports could be the base for a family project that blossoms.

Looking back at my family, there were many times when we were lucky enough to spot the needs and fill the gaps. Then all sorts of great things happened. Whatever you spot, I am sure you will be glad you did.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Zionsville, Ind.