1. BUILDING STRONG FAMILIES

2. Objective
Explain what it takes to create a strong family

3. What is a Functional Family?
Pg 184
“ a strong, healthy family … [which] provides a positive environment…”
A place where “each family member is encouraged to grow and to reach his or her fullest potential.”
“Each family member carries out his or her roles and responsibilities … and works to keep [ the family] strong, healthy and happy.”

4. Only Good Times? They are not perfect
Their lives are not always smooth, BUT…
They have a sense of purpose – to overcome obstacles and to stay strong.
They believe the effort is worth it.

5. What does it take to create a strong family?
Communicate Effectively
Talk about problems, needs, and feelings
Listen
Find ways to find time to do this
Tell them you love them

6. What does it take to create a strong family?
Solve Problems
In positive ways
Our problem vs your problem
Get help
Don’t just cover it up

7. What does it take to create a strong family?
Spend Time Together
Involve everyone
Plan together
Have fun
Keep the date

8. What does it take to create a strong family?
Show Appreciation
Words
Thank you
complements
Actions
Help without being asked
Plan special things for them

9. What does it take to create a strong family?
Show Respect
Take time to really listen
Agree to disagree on some ideas
Privacy
Personal property
Treat others like you would want to be treated

10. What does it take to create a strong family?
Understanding
How does she feel?
What is she going through?

11. You will be given a Label.
You are the ___________ in the family.
What are your rights?
What are your responsibilities?
Grandparent
Parent
Teenager
Young Child
Young Adult Still Depending on $
Young Adult -$ Independent

12. Rights and Responsibilities
Right to expect support and guidance
Responsibility to provide support and guidance

13. Rights and Responsibilities
Right to learn and to practice decision making skills
Responsibility to provide input for family decisions that need to be made

14. Rights and Responsibilities
Right to share in the resources contributed by others
Time
Energy
Interest
Knowledge
Skills
Money
Responsibility to contribute the special resources you have to offer
Time
Energy
Interest
Knowledge
Skills
Money

15. Rights and Responsibilities
The right to share a lasting commitment
The responsibility to share a lasting commitment
“Be There”