Creating a Christ-Centered Fall Family Routine for Spiritual Growth and Togetherness

There are so many changes that come along this time of the year. From the back-to-school rush, extracurriculars, and just the overall coziness and transition of the season—there's so much going on and so many ways to get out of sync in your routine.

I've found that setting new rhythms for the season is the perfect way to not only keep everyone organized but also keep Christ at your family's center.

Why Routines Matter

Having established routines in your family allows for smooth transitions and predictability. Routines give children stability and designated connection points they can look forward to, while also giving peace to parents amid the chaos of daily life.

Additionally, creating small, daily family "traditions" creates more opportunities for you to foster discipleship in the everyday moments and develop spiritual growth as a family.

Morning Anchors

The morning routine is the first point of contact that you have with your family each day. You can use any part of those interactions to start the day with family prayer. Use a short devotional over a warm autumnal breakfast or a quick scripture while helping your kids get ready for the day.

I like to include my kids in the morning prayer that I pray over them in the car on the way to school. During this time, you can also talk about "gratitude moments" and have them share something they are grateful for that day.

After-School Rhythms

The time after the kids get home from school, or as I like to call it—"Back Pack to Bedtime"—can be a bit of a blur. With homework, dinner prep, and planning for the next day, the after-school rhythm can be a time where patience and prayer are needed most.

During this busy time, try to make incorporating God feel natural, like part of the conversation. While they're eating an after-school snack and telling you about the day, you can ask them to discuss where they may have seen God show up for them.

Or during reading time (my youngest gets assigned 20 minutes of reading time for homework each day), read a Christian storybook. These can be small informal ways to strengthen spiritual connection.

Evening Wind-Down

Now that it's fall, it's the perfect time to pull out those cozy and savory recipes. Picking one day a week to make an autumn-inspired dinner is a great way to add a little sprinkle of the fall to your nighttime festivities.

After dinner and bath/shower time, you can easily follow things up with a quick evening devotional or journaling session. And just like the gratitude moments we discussed earlier, you can also ask your children about a "praise moment" that they experienced during their day.

Weekend Traditions

Weekends are a great time for you to slow things down in your routine. Because you have more time, you're able to fit more points of connection and intentional moments.

One way you can take advantage of this extra time is by implementing a fall family night into your weekend routine. Gather together and do something you enjoy as a family—but make it fall-themed!

Make a bonfire together and roast s'mores while reading a devotional or have a pumpkin carving night with a memory verse theme. Make it your own by adding personal touches that reflect your family's favorite traditions and interests.

I hope these tips help you transition into your fall seasonal routines and inspires you to make the most of your daily life while growing connection, togetherness, and spirituality.

What are some ways you want to spend time with you family this Fall?🍁