by Valerie Owings, owner and founder of Parenting with Peace, LLC; mother of two and stepmother to one. www.parentingwithpeace.com

If you've ever considered having a family meeting, you've probably wondered why should I do it, and how do I go about it? We first did a family meeting when my two older children were about ten and twelve, but I recommend starting when children are in first or second grade. We even wrote up and signed family contracts to ensure that everyone understood the purpose of the meeting and the changes we would be implementing in our house.
 
Here are some general guidelines and tips for conducting a family meeting:
 
What it is:
1.      A chance to set rules and boundaries for your household
2.      A way to show parental unity
3.      A way to open up communication and dialogue
4.      A way to involve children in decision making
 
What it is not:
1.      A free-for-all where everyone gets everything they want
2.      A time for chastising or disciplining
 
Benefits:
1.      Children feel respected when they are allowed input into daily home life, and are more likely to comply with the expected rules and guidelines
2.      Everybody knows the rules, so there is no arguing about them, and parents are more likely to stick together and follow through

There is a real potential for family growth through the sharing of values.


Valerie Owings
Parenting with Peace, LLC
http://www.parentingwithpeace.com