Families across the province are considering how they will spend BC’s newest holiday, a mid-winter break from the doldrums of February. Options abound for family-friendly outings during the long weekend. Whether it is participating in community events or taking some quiet time out to visit Powell River’s backcountry, there’s no shortage of opportunities to be actively engaged with those who are most important.
Family Day, proposed in 2011, takes place Monday, February 9. It not only formally recognizes the importance of this most basic social structure, it also does something that neither Mother’s nor Father’s day do—includes everyone. And that experience of inclusion can be positive and life-affirming for children in all families, especially those which are diverse.
Mother’s and Father’s days are inherited international cultural institutions, but every year they leave out many children and can cause all kinds of awkwardness and confusion, despite the best efforts of parents and teachers. People need the freedom to be able to define themselves and their families.
The concept of Family Day is broad enough that everyone should be able to see themselves reflected in the notion of family, no matter what make up or size that family comes in.
Besides promoting inclusion, the holiday also recognizes the importance of spending the time and making the effort to further deepen relationships.
Quality time together is the basic ingredient to building strong family connections, making memories which last a lifetime and creating an environment which aids in building self-esteem and character in children.
Family time need not be expensive. It can be as simple as a shared activity like going for a walk together, or a bike ride or playing a game. The important part is being together and enjoying each other’s company.
Obviously, spending time with the family only one day a year is not going to be enough to create strong families, but building routines both daily and weekly will go a long way to building relationships. Consider the simple daily activities of eating together, taking time out at in the evening to talk about what happened during the day, sharing stories and doing household chores together. Why not plan a weekly stay at home family game or movie night? Families are all different, so these suggestions will vary, but focusing on simple things and time together can strengthen a family.
Enjoy Family Day.
