Some parents see New Year's Eve as an opportunity to get away from the family to celebrate in private or with friends. Going out to dinner, attending parties, and emptying bottles seems to be the order of the night. I recommend another alternative, one that can help your family grow closer. Spend New Year's Eve together. It's an ideal time to celebrate connectedness, reflect on the past year, and look ahead to the future.

This is how it worked for our family, when my children were growing up. Deciding what treats to purchase, shopping together, and decorating occupied much of the day that led up to the big evening. Dinner and card games filled the early evening. When interest in games died down, we assembled in the living room, sat in a circle, and began the most meaningful part of our New Year's Eve together