The start of school usually means that time with family almost ceases to exist. The fun nights spent with family are replaced with stress, sports, homework and social activities. But even with a full schedule, there are plenty of ways to squeeze in family time.

One of the easiest ways to spend time with your family is cooking together. While getting food prepared, conversations can pop up very easily. These conversations can not only strengthen the bond between families but also can be used as an outlet to get problems that have been bothering someone out in the open and off their chest.

Another simple way to squeeze in family time is to simply watch TV together. Just being in the same room as your family can be relaxing. You can be yourself and not have to worry about all the different opinions of your peers. Sophomore Reese Murcer watches TV often with her family on the weekend.

“Being able to watch TV with my family on the weekends makes me happy,” Murcer said. “It relives all the school stress from the past week. Since my parents work a lot, it is hard to make time, but we somehow get it done.”

Family time plays a huge role in your everyday life. It is the little things that you do with them that can make you happier and relieve even more of your stress.