the happyhome habits


Once Upon a Family has developed the happyhome habits to make it easy and fun to build loving connections, instill strong family values and create a legacy for future generations. These habits are based on the “protective” factors” that decades of research have shown will strengthen families against the negative inﬂuences in today’s world. Using the power of rituals and traditions, the happyhome habits are things we can do with our families once-a-day, once-a-week, once-a-month, once-a-year and once-in-a-while. They are simple, fun and they give us peace of mind. We know we have accomplished the most important things for our loved ones. Be sure to click on the 'Activities' tab to find monthly downloads for each of these activities ~ a membership benefit.
	Once a Day: Conversation Starters ~ Developing Values Spend time together talking about what matters most. Transform the dinner table into the place where you have fun and memorable conversations that give everyone a sense of belonging.
	Once a Week: Family Fun Night ~ Spending Time Together Stop all the hustle and bustle and do something fun together. Put family first by setting aside a day and time to just have fun: monopoly, bowling, hiking, a craft or cooking project.
	Once a Month: A Treasured Tradition around a Holiday Share a simple family tradition. Many of our favorite childhood memories revolve around family holidays and vacations that we have repeated over and over again. Good smells, good feelings, good times. Family traditions are the building blocks of strong, caring, happy families because they create the memories that connect us forever.
	Once a Year: Leaving a Legacy with Your Family Story Create a legacy of love to pass onto future generations. Dedicate one day a year to developing your own family’s story. Write letters to your children. Ask older members of the family to share (write or record) their favorite life stories. Make a family tree or a family album together as you reminisce over good times.
	Once in a While: Expressions of Love Surprise someone you care about with a gesture of love. It doesn’t take much to touch someone’s heart, especially when it is unexpected. Leave love notes under a pillow, in a lunch box or taped to the steering wheel. Take the time to really listen and understand.

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