Weekly Family Meeting With Agenda
Run a structured weekly family meeting where everyone contributes agenda items and decisions are made together — real democracy at home.
What You'll Need
- 1Agenda paper posted on the fridge
- 2Notebook for recording decisions
- 3Pen
What You'll Need
A paper posted on the fridge for collecting agenda items
A notebook for recording decisions
A pen
How to Play
Post a blank "Meeting Agenda" sheet on the fridge at the start of each week.
Throughout the week, anyone can write agenda items: "Chore schedule isn't fair," "Can we get a pet?" "Summer vacation ideas."
On meeting day (Sunday works well), sit at the table with the agenda.
The facilitator (rotate weekly) reads each item and opens the floor for discussion.
Everyone speaks. Everyone listens. Then the family decides — by consensus or majority vote.
Record decisions: what was agreed, who's responsible, and any deadlines.
Close with appreciations: each person shares one highlight from the week.
Why It Works
Family meetings give children a taste of democratic participation. When a tween adds "I think the chore distribution is unfair" to the agenda and it gets discussed seriously, they learn that their voice has real power. The structured format teaches meeting skills they'll use for the rest of their lives: setting agendas, taking turns speaking, listening to opposing views, making group decisions, and recording outcomes. The rotating facilitator role builds leadership. The appreciation closing ensures the meeting ends on a positive note, even if difficult topics were discussed.
Tips
Keep meetings to 30 minutes max. Longer meetings lose engagement.
Take every agenda item seriously, even if it seems trivial to adults. A child's concern about bedtime is as valid as a parent's concern about screen time.
Follow through on decisions. If the family agreed to change the chore chart, change it. Broken agreements destroy trust.
If conversations get heated, use the family constitution or conflict resolution steps as a framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 30 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: agenda paper posted on the fridge, notebook for recording decisions, pen.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 8-12 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
Ratings & Reviews
Sign in to leave a rating or review.
Add to Your Weekly Plan
Schedule this activity into your family's week. It takes about 30 min.
Free account required to save plans
Explore More
Love this activity?
Create a free account and add it to your weekly planner. Discover hundreds more activities matched to your child's age.