How to Create Family Time and Why It’s Important: A Guide for Strengthening Connection

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for families to fall into the rhythm of busy schedules and digital distractions. But carving out meaningful family time isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for emotional well-being, mental health, and connection. This blog explores how to create family time intentionally and why it matters, backed by research and practical tips.

Quality family time often takes a backseat to work commitments, school schedules, extracurricular activities, and screens competing for everyone’s attention. A 2018 survey found that the average family spends just 37 minutes of quality time together daily—less than a single episode of a TV show.

Without intentional connection, family members can feel isolated, even while living under the same roof. For children and teens, this can contribute to feelings of anxiety, disconnection, and behavioral issues. For parents, it can result in guilt and a sense of imbalance.

Therapist’s Perspective

As a therapist, I often hear clients say, “We’re always in the same house, but we’re not really spending time together.” Family time isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality. Even a few minutes of intentional, face-to-face interaction can foster trust, emotional regulation, and a sense of belonging.

A 2015 study in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that the total amount of time parents spend with children has less impact than the quality of the time spent, especially with adolescents. The study highlighted that time spent with teens had a more significant influence on their emotional health and academic outcomes than that of younger children. So while it’s reassuring that parents don’t need to be present 24/7, it’s clear that intentional connection during adolescence matters most.

Solutions and Strategies

Here are simple, effective ways to create meaningful family time, even with a busy schedule:

1. Make it a Date!
   Block off time on your calendar for family connection, just like you would for work or errands. Whether it’s 20 minutes after dinner or Sunday morning pancakes, consistency builds habit.

2. Unplug During Family Time
   Create a tech-free zone during shared moments. Phones down, eyes up. This small shift helps everyone feel seen and heard. This also requ

3. Create Micro-Moments
   Family time doesn’t have to be elaborate. Playing a quick card game, folding laundry together, or sharing a funny video can all spark conversation and closeness.

4. Involve Everyone in Planning
   Ask each family member to pick a weekly activity or a vacation. This empowers teens to feel ownership and makes the time more meaningful for everyone. Ask them to make a PowerPoint and share as a presentation! This can make it fun while also being creative.

5. Ritualize the Ordinary
   Turn daily routines into connection opportunities—like walking the dog together, car rides to sporting events, activities, school, etc., or making dinner or lunch together.

Conclusion

Family time doesn’t have to be perfect, lengthy, or planned out to make a difference. It just has to be consistent, intentional, and rooted in care. Even small moments can become powerful anchors in a child’s life and offer grounding for the entire family.

By prioritizing connection—especially during the teen years—you’re not only supporting each other’s emotional health, you’re also strengthening the bonds that carry your family through life’s challenges. And that’s something worth making time for.