Counseling Blog | The Dunham School | Private PreK-12 | Baton Rouge, LA

Counseling Blog

May 2025

Fostering Family Engagement and Connections THis Summer

HAPPY SUMMER! We are sure we speak for every Dunham family when we say that parents and students often find themselves swept up in the whirlwind of summer camps, sports practices, vacations, and other activities. While these opportunities are enriching and fun, it’s important to remain intentional about fostering family engagement and connectedness.

As Deuteronomy 6:6-7 reminds us, "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

Why Family Engagement and Connectedness Matter

Fostering family engagement and connectedness is essential for a child’s mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Research shows that children who feel connected to their families experience lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Strong family bonds provide a safe and supportive environment where children can express their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. When families engage in meaningful conversations and activities, children develop a stronger sense of belonging and security, which leads to higher self-esteem and better coping mechanisms in times of difficulty.

Additionally, connectedness builds a firm foundation of family values. When parents prioritize spending time together and demonstrating love, kindness, and faith in action, children internalize these values and carry them into their own lives.

Proverbs 22:6 gives us a wonderful description of the job of parenthood, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."

Furthermore, dedicated family time in the summer sets the stage for stronger connections during the school year. As children face academic pressures, social challenges, and other stressors, having a consistent family support system becomes crucial. When open communication and quality time are established during the summer, children are more likely to turn to their parents for guidance and encouragement when they need it most.

In the hustle and bustle of summer, here are some practical, Biblically inspired ways to strengthen your family bonds:

• Prioritize Daily Connection Time
  Set aside a specific time each day to connect as a family. This could be during breakfast, dinner, or a family walk in the evening. Use this time to ask open-ended questions like, "What was the best part of your day?" or "How did you see God at work today?"
• Engage in Family Devotions
  Create a summer tradition of family Bible study or devotionals. This could be as simple as reading a passage together each morning or before bedtime and discussing how it applies to your lives. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."
• Plan a Weekly Family Activity
  In the midst of busy schedules, set aside one evening a week for a family activity. Whether it’s game night, a movie night, or cooking a meal together, these shared experiences build lasting memories.
• Serve Together as a Family
  Look for opportunities to serve others in your community. This might mean volunteering at a local food bank, visiting an elderly neighbor, or participating in a church outreach event. Serving others helps children understand the joy of giving and reinforces the mindset and action Christ calls us all to in serving others.
• Embrace the Outdoors Together
  Take advantage of the summer weather by spending time outdoors as a family. Visit the local pool, go on nature hikes around the city, visit a local park, or even start a garden together. Use these moments to marvel at God’s creation!
• Limit Screen Time and Be Fully Present
  With so many digital distractions, it’s important to set boundaries for screen time. Encourage everyone in the family to unplug during meals, family activities, and devotions. Instead, focus on being present with one another.
• Encourage Open Communication
  Create a safe space where your children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Listen actively and empathetically, showing them that their voice matters.
• Celebrate God’s Faithfulness Together
  Take time to reflect on God’s blessings and faithfulness as a family. Keep a family gratitude journal where each member writes down things they are thankful for, and share these during family prayer time. Lamentations 3:22-23 helps us in this tradition, "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

Summer is a season of opportunity—a time to create cherished memories, deepen relationships, and grow closer as a family under God’s guidance. By being intentional and rooted in faith, you can foster meaningful connections that will impact your children for years to come! May your summer be filled with joy, connection, and God’s abundant blessings!