So it's not original, but it's probably our family's favorite tradition - General Conference Weekend.
About 2 years ago, I realized that yelling at my kids to sit down, be quiet, and listen wasn't working. Infact, it was probably making it miserable for everyone. So I started researching ideas from the ensign and internet. Here are a few things that we do to make this weekend a fun one.
The family home evening before the weekend, we always talk about King Benjamin and how the people gathered their families and pitched their tents facing the temple so that they could hear the prophet. We talked about how we don't have to go to the prophet now; we can watch it on TV or the internet. We also talk about what the prophet might tell us when he speaks to us and what King Benjamin told his people.
Friday I prep 'holiday' food. We eat special food such as turkey, pumpkin roll, homemade rolls, etc all weekend long. That night, we set up our tent inside and sleep together as a family. Sunday, we take the tent down and the kids ALWAYS groan.
During conference, I give the kids an 'activity packet' that they can color and do. It helps them to be quiet and for the older ones (right now, Faith), it helps them write key words about what the speaker is talking about. They also get a treat sack. It is filled with fun treats for them if they sit and listen to the speakers. I buy specialty things that I wouldn't normally buy for them.
This has been such a success in our family and has helped keep the spirit in our home so that we can receive the messages. Last conference, Sister Beck talked about 'mothers who know'. During the middle of the talk, Faith turned around and said, "Mom, this lady is talking to you."
Good luck making conference weekend 'special' for your family!!!
2 comments:
You are such a fun mom!! You are just awesome. That is a great idea - I'll have to pass it on. Have so much fun, sleeping in your tent (I love that idea). I am really excited for conference - it is always wonderful and I am looking forward to it. Take care! Love Aunt Sondra
I remember when you started this tradition. We stole some of your ideas and implemented them in our family. We always cook traditional holiday food and print out activity packets. Then after Sunday afternoon session, we have a special family home evening where we share what we learned from conference and how we are going to act on what we learned. The boys (Steve & my dad) have far too much fun playing conference bingo!
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