Thanks to the hectic pace of modern life, families often struggle to find time for togetherness. From parents’ busy work schedules to kids’ schooling, after-school activities and other demands on people’s time, it’s easy to see why it’s so tricky to get everyone together in one place at one time. As busy as everyone is, family time is still important. No matter what everyone’s schedules are like, there are plenty of ways to carve out time to be together as a family.

Turn Off the Devices

FamilyIncredibly, some families who live under the same roof see more of each other on Facebook than they do in real life. Changing this is often as simple as learning how to unplug for brief windows of time. By designating a “screen-free” hour every evening, your family can more easily interact face to face than through social media. Technology has many exciting benefits, but it shouldn’t be used at the detriment of family togetherness.

Sit Down for Dinner

Although most households still have dinner tables, actually seeing people sitting around it together and enjoying meals is becoming rarer by the day. It’s fairly common now for everyone to take their food to their rooms or to zone out in front of the TV with their meals. The simple act of sitting around the table to enjoy dinner is one of the best ways to ensure regular, consistent family time. At first, dinnertime around the table may rub kids the wrong way. Eventually, though, it will become a tradition that will be looked back upon fondly for years to come.

See the Sights With Day Trips

When it comes to traveling together as a family, there’s no need to jet off to Paris or to cruise the Caribbean. Simply getting away for a day here and there can make a world of difference. Regardless of where your family lives, there are sure to be plenty of fun places to explore together.

State parks, national parks, wilderness areas and other outdoor spaces abound around the country and are perfect day trip destinations. Quick visits to major cities for shopping, dinner, shows and other adventures are a lot of fun too. Planning such excursions is typically as easy as deciding on a place, hopping in the car and hitting the road.

These days, everyone is busy. By acknowledging this and making a concerted effort to do things together, your family can maintain its bond and create incredible memories that are bound to last a lifetime.