The Minutes Matter
In 2002, Boys & Girls Clubs of America commissioned the first-ever
National KidsDay Meaningful Time Survey to identify how adults and children
define quality time. It was defined as time spent between adults and
children that is engaging, important and enjoyable. As you plan your
event, keep these tips in mind to ensure your celebration fosters meaningful
time with children:
- Give children a voice in planning and selecting
activities.
- Plan events that require adults to participate
with kids, rather than sit on the sidelines.
- Organize an event that’s fun for the whole family.
A more comprehensive list of recommendations is available
in the 2003 Making Memories Guide online at www.kidsday.net and www.bgca.org.
Meaningful time research continues with a three-year survey,
known as The Annual Meaningful Time Check-Up on U.S.
Children and Families. BGCA and KidsPeace are co-sponsoring this
research to create annual snapshots of how adults
spend meaningful time with young people to
ensure their physical and emotional well being. Findings
from the research will be used to develop family
guidelines that caregivers can use to
improve the impact of the meaningful time they spend
together with their kids. Go to www.kidsday.net for
complete survey results and to access the family
guidelines.
National KidsDay Honor Roll organizations
(associations supporting NKD) continue to spread
the word about quality time with kids and have stepped
up their commitment by increasing communications
to their members and encouraging participation at
NKD events. Leeza Gibbons
is the official celebrity spokesperson for National
KidsDay, and other celebrities are signed on to participate
in select events. Many corporations are showing their
support support for National KidsDay including Blockbuster,
Major League Baseball, Party City, The Home Depot,
Wal-Mart, General Mills, Kodak and Kraft. Each partner
will participate in NKD through promotions and Ultimate
National KidsDay Picinic Celebrations.
Claire Rust is a part of the National KidsDay team |
