Family Meetings?

Question

I need help quickly and am looking for an answer that is clear, precise and very informative/descriptive. I am trying to seriously start family meetings as a tradition in my immediate family. What are the steps to start up a family meeting and how should it be conducted? Example of how the meeting minutes should be written and so forth. I need helppppp.

Answer 1

First step i'd advise is to simply pick a SET DAY- either of the week or month. And do NOT miss that day! Make sure tv, phones, cells, work, everything is set aside for this! Its important!

Second, have an agenda. You know your family, perhaps get one of those big magic erase boards so during the week/month topics for discussions will be noted.

Third: involve everyone! Always ask children open-ended questions! Ones that cannot be answered with a 'yes' or 'no'. Really be interested, draw them out. Let the family know this is there time to talk about whatever is on their mind, not to be embarrassed cause they are being listened to.

Finally, have it timed. Its hard to sit for hours, you want this time to be enjoyable right? so let them know there is a set time. Extended topics can be discussed next meeting.

One more thing: TRY TO ALWAYS LEAVE IT POSITIVE. Everyone should feel like they spent time getting to know eachother and loving family.
Do what works for the schedule and hope this helps a little.

Answer 2

The first thing you should do is to make a list of those who you want to be there. Plan a menu. Is it going to be one person furnsih all food or will you have a pot luck . This is where everyone brings a dish. If everyone brings a dish tell them what you want them to bring andwrite theri name one the menu list. This way everyone will not bring same food. Set time and date making sure everyone can be there. Send out invitations or make phone calss to all and tell them you want a gathering. If you want games, plan them as well. When everyone arrives, call a meeting and explain all that you wnat to accomplish. Then hold election for persident, secretary, treasurer etc.

Good luck in your quest.
I did this for my family and it has worked really well for 5 years now. Everyone has a great time!!!!!

Answer 3

You may want to do it on line: By creating a family website. This is very inexpensive on www.webspawner.com. This way everyone can share photos and announcements. It's neat way to stay in touch, without excluding family members who don't live nearby. Good luck!