Decide what topics the family needs to discuss—upcoming events, solving problems, planning vacations, dividing chores, or celebrating successes. Let your child lead creating the agenda, but family members can suggest topics. Keep it manageable—3-5 items max. Write the agenda down so the meeting stays focused.

Start the meeting by welcoming everyone, stating the agenda, and reviewing ground rules: one person talks at a time, everyone listens respectfully, no interrupting or blaming, focus on solutions not complaints. Your child, as host, gently enforces these rules throughout. Setting expectations upfront makes discussions more productive and respectful.

Work through agenda items one by one. For each topic, your child invites input ('What does everyone think about...?'), summarizes what's said, helps the family brainstorm solutions if it's a problem, and guides toward decisions or action steps. Keep discussions moving—if they stall, suggest moving on and revisiting later. Take notes on key points and decisions.

Before ending, have your child recap what was decided and who's responsible for what. 'We agreed to try a new chore system. Mom will make the chart by Friday. We'll plan our camping trip—Dad will research campgrounds this week.' Clear summaries prevent misunderstandings and ensure follow-through. Write action items where everyone can see them.

Thank everyone for participating. Ask for feedback: 'What went well? What should we do differently next meeting?' Schedule the next family meeting before everyone disperses. End on a positive note—maybe share something fun planned or something you appreciate about each person. Good closings make families want to meet again.