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In today’s hustle and bustle life it is very easy for families to lose the “closeness” needed to survive the onslaught of divorces, troubled teens, and other family dysfunctions. Many families consist of two working parents, and even for those with one stay home parent the challenge of finding any quality or relaxation time with one another is still a difficult task.
The outdoors has much to offer in the way of family time. Uninterrupted by telephone calls or television commercials getting back to nature can play a vital role in getting back to family. Whether it is a weekend camping at your local state park, or a day hike and picnic, your guaranteed time together in a new and different atmosphere. The end results will surprise you. Young children and old alike find something in the outdoors to enjoy. Parents and children often find themselves in a mutual learning situation, thus bringing the family to a common ground, and lessening stress between siblings, and opening communications between the entire family unit. It is the ideal way to get to know one another again, or get to know what other family members are experiencing in their own day-to-day life.
Most therapists agree that if you take away the distractions (i.e.: TV, phone, games, bills, work etc.) and place the entire family together for a period of time that there is a good possibility for real conversation to erupt. Real feelings can be and often are masked in both adults as well as children. Parents tend to keep the serious family issues between themselves and children often take the cue and keep their own serious issues private. This sets up the stereotypical family household of today. Within the silence grows frustrations, anxiety, and irritability and often disaster. A weekend camping trip can set the tone for more openness between everyone. Even if you find there are endless hours of silence while together in the great outdoors there is still a reward: a family at peace.
Most states have a large selection of state park systems offering something for everyone. Try the parks closest to your home, going for a short weekend or just a Saturday night at first. As your family's eagerness and interest grows, plan longer and more distant trips. Don’t rush out and buy expensive camping gear, a small pup tent for two can usually accommodate three and works miracles for family closeness.
The time you take today can work to strengthen your family’s relationships in the future. Most family campers find that the passion for nature and the outdoors filters on for many generations. What better gift to your children than the ability to spend real time enjoying one another’s company. It reassures love and security that has often been overlooked or misplaced. It is economically affordable for anyone, but priceless in family value.
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