The Bonding Benefits of Active Family Time

Allow your child to initiate the games you play together, whether it's crawling like a cat or kicking a soccer ball.

The benefits of family time are pretty clear. Strong family bonds are essential for kids' social and emotional development and for everyone's well-being — adults and children.

But especially as kids grow, it's harder and harder to fit in that important family time. Shared meals can help you bond (even if they don't end up happening at dinner time).

And so can physical activity. Sharing active play with your family isn't just a good way to get your heart pumping and burn calories. It's also a great way to build family bonds. When you play tag, toss a Frisbee, or join in a dance party, you're creating memories your child will treasure someday — memories of times you spent laughing and simply enjoying each other's company.