No matter how out-of-control crazy your days might feel, every family has a rhythm. If you look closely at what your family does and when, you’ll find there are consistent things that happen every day or week: 

You get up. 

You eat.

You go.

You come back. 

You sleep.

Family rhythms help your kids recenter on what’s true—like how much you love them and how brave and resilient they are. Kids need to know that, even when life is hard, there will be showers and chores and Taco Tuesdays.

Morning Time (any kid, any age)

Start your kid’s day with an encouraging word—even if they are grumpy or don’t respond well. 

Feeding Time (for babies)

Use this time to reflect on what’s most important through song and engaging voices.

Cuddle Time (for preschoolers)

Remind them of their capabilities and affirm them. 

Bath Time (for preschoolers)

Talk about the important stuff: Bible stories and the character of God, a recap of your day, and what you hope will happen tomorrow. 

Drive Time (any kid, any age)

Use this time to connect with your kid or teen and get to know what’s going on in their life and what’s important to them. Make sure you listen without judgment or interruption.

Meal Time (any kid, any age)

Talk about the best and challenging parts of your day. Share at least one thing you’re grateful for.

Bed Time (any kid, any age)

Pray with and for your kids. Show appropriate physical affection.

Their Time (for high schoolers)

Be accessible when your high schooler wants to connect—whenever that is.

The rhythm in your home sets your family’s values. So, whatever your family rhythm looks like, there’s a way you can take what you’re already doing and add one simple thing to connect to the heart of your kids. In the process, you’ll build not only your connection with them, but their faith and their character, too.

Parent smarter—not harder—with the Parent Cue app.

Looking for simple ways to connect to the heart of your kid each week? Join half a million other parents on the free Parent Cue app for weekly tools, content, and curated time cues like the ones above to help you nurture your kid’s faith and character no matter the phase they’re in.