Learn how to use a simple family motto or family slogan to help manage behavior, inspire unity, reinforce family values, and choose what matters.
Crafting a Family Motto
Several years ago, my oldest son and I were walking in the forest after a string of rainy days. Everything was lush green and there were hundreds of fantastic mushrooms, molds, and lichens growing on trees, logs, and the forest floor.
Fascinated by their unusual colors and spongy textures, he wanted to learn more about them…with his feet! Just as he was about to kick a uniquely-tall yellow mushroom, I gently pulled him back, crouched down, and told him, “Enjoy, don’t destroy.”
That afternoon, those three words accidentally became our family motto!
What is a Family Motto?
A family motto is a short phrase or slogan that generalizes your family’s beliefs and values.
Whether they rhyme or not, the words of a family motto should prioritize mutual respect, thought before action, empathy, kindness, and relationships. Some family mottos may be silly, while others may be inspired by a religious text or favorite author.
A strong family motto unifies your family and helps kids understand how to treat others and the environment around them. Read more about the importance of establishing a good motto here.
How Do You Use a Family Motto?
Simply put, you repeat it (or think it) over and over again!
Sometimes I remind my children of our family motto as a question. For example, when I caught my boys coloring on the bedroom door with markers I asked, “Are you enjoying our home or destroying it?” My youngest considered the question and replied in his funny three-year-old way, “Destroying it, Mommy.”
“Well, what should we do to solve this problem?”
“I’ll get wipes, Mommy.”
Awesome—the problem was solved by him without nagging, harping, or barking orders on my behalf. He learned that their actions were inappropriate and an important family value was reinforced; treat all property with respect.
And then there are the whining days. Oh, the whining days! The days the kids are tired, cranky, and impossible to please! On those days, when I’m frustrated with their choices and want to raise my voice, I take a deep breath and remind myself:
Enjoy, don’t destroy.
Then there are those days when nothing goes right. Spilled juice on a freshly mopped floor. Low fuel in the tank of the car with no gas station in sight! Like, when you are already running late, but a small child tugs on your leg because he needs help with his shoes. You could just pick him up and go, or take the time to help him tie those shoes.
In these frustrating moments, we have a choice; destroy confidence and relationships or enjoy every bit of the mess!
Our life motto has taught our boys that our family is a family who cares about and appreciates each other and those around us. Three simple words, with incredible depth and importance, guide our daily thoughts, actions, and choices.
Enjoy, don’t destroy.
More Examples of Family Slogans
Are you still searching for the best motto for your family? Here are some more good mottos to live by:
- Live simply, love abundantly
- Don’t worry be happy
- Go Team [Last Name]
- Do your very best
- Spread your love like fire
- Be kind every time
- Be helpful, be honest, be happy
- Always there to always care
- The [last name] family never gives up
- We’re always better together
- I’m safe, I’m warm, and I’m loved
- I always have something to give
- Be braver today than you were yesterday
- Work hard, play harder
- Outdoor play, every day – Another one of ours!
- In our family, we do [dinner, hugs, forgiveness, etc.]
- Be thankful every day
- Everything is awesome
- Families share, families care
- Nourish your body, soul, and relationships
- Make great memories
- These are the good old days
More Parenting Ideas
Did you like this post? You may also enjoy:
- 10 Ways to Spend Quality Time with Kids
- 10 Ways to Make Kids Laugh
- How to Make a Sensory Box for Kids
- How to Set Up a Kids Homework Station
This article was originally published in August 2012. It has been republished and updated to include additional information and photos.
Photo Credit: © Halfpoint | Adobe Stock
Jen says
Thanks for the much needed reminder. It is always “easier” and faster to destroy. In reality, it only takes a few more seconds to “enjoy”. I love this statement. I may have to use it!!
Jessica says
Melissa, your blog is so lovely. What lucky boys you have, and what a lucky audience to read about your adventures together.
Lisa Nolan says
I really like your family reminder to ‘enjoy don’t destroy’! It sure goes a long way! I need to come up with something similar for my 8-year-old son at school. (He has special needs but is in a public school and does not communicate like an 8-year-old, so it ranges from two to five-years in language skills! Anyway, your idea really inspired me!)
Heather says
I love that you apply this saying for yourself as well!
Joanne says
I love your house rule ! ! I am going to print your rule ” enjoy, don’t destroy” and put where we can be reminded. I live with my 2 year old granddaughter and her mom and I are establishing a rule about kindness. We have been asking her when she does something rude. Is that kind or rude. I hope she will hear the rule of kindness in her head the rest of her life.