Not Getting Along With the In-Laws? Tips to Make Family Gatherings Peaceful

While it’s preferable to get along well with our in-laws, and even better to actually look forward to and enjoy spending time as a family, sometimes in-laws just can’t make it work. Whether the issues are big or small, when it comes time for family get-togethers, everyone benefits when rifts are put aside and everyone tries to enjoy one another’s company. Here some tips to make family gatherings more peaceful when your in-laws aren’t exactly your best friends.

Pick an Activity Everyone Likes

If you have personality clashes and regular debates with in-laws, sitting at home in the living room will only give a reason to start nitpicking. Instead, go out and do something that everyone enjoys. Perhaps it’s a hike in the park, a day at the movies, or a picnic at the beach. Whatever gets the family into the activity and out of the bickering mindset, the more you may realize you have in common.

Make the Kids the Center of Attention

Fighting in front of the kids is always a no-no. Plan your time together where the kids are the main focus. Encourage the kids put on a talent show for the family, or let the kids set up a tea party. Plan gatherings around the kid’s recitals or sporting events. Everyone is rooting for the kids so you’ll all have common ground.

Go Out to a Restaurant

Hopefully, everyone is on their best behavior when out in a public setting such as a restaurant. Instead of inviting the in-laws for a home-cooked meal, go out. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just be sure everyone likes the type of food served. When all parties are relaxed without the stresses of cooking or cleaning up, everyone may get along just a little bit more.

What to Tell the Kids

Even if you’ve tried everything and you still cannot get along, make sure that your kids understand this has nothing to do with them. They can feel OK if they enjoy the company of the in-laws, and they should. Hopefully, as you see your kids developing bonds with the in-laws, you may start to change your tune about your relationship. If the kids can’t bring you together in harmony, then what will? Having kids can help redefine relationships within families, and usually for the better.

How do you get along with your in-laws? What are some things you do to keep the peace? For more info like this, please visit All My Children blogs.

By: Melissa A. Kay