With the growing number of distractions surrounding us and the ever-busy world that we live in, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to make time for the things that truly matter – one of them being quality time with our kids. Being a parent is definitely not a walk in the park. There are so many roles that you have to juggle and different hats that you have to wear as a parent. However, these aren’t reasons to take spending quality time with your child for granted.
Making sure that you spend quality time with your little one is an excellent way to make them feel like they are loved and cared for. Quality time also helps to minimize behavioral issues and is vital for your child’s growth and development.
Even if you work long hours every day or spend a lot of time on household chores, be sure to spend an adequate amount of quality time with your child. Unsure how to make it happen? Here are some helpful tips on how to go about it.
Step into their world
Regardless of age, children constantly need to feel like they are loved, wanted, and valued. Although they may not directly tell you, they also want to feel as though you are there for them. There may be times when they’d rather play alone, but at the same time, they also want to feel secure about the fact that you are around. In these moments you can observe, watch, and listen to them in silence. Try to step into their world by engaging with them when they play or striking up a conversation. This doesn’t have to be complicated, all you have to do is try.
Don’t be afraid to be silly
Don’t be afraid to have fun and be silly. Be a child again. Laugh and play with your little one. Your children will love your energy and will long for your presence even more when you can manage to match their playful mood.
Make it a daily habit to connect with your child
As a parent, no amount of workload is reason enough not to spend time connecting with your child. It’s an integral part of every parent’s role to find the time to bond and spend quality time with their kids. Whether it be during meals, playtime, or even during the bedtime routine, the important thing is that you don’t let your little one fall asleep without at least a little bit of bonding.
Prepare meals together
Getting messy in the kitchen is an excellent way for parents and children to bond. It doesn’t matter if you’re baking cookies or making a very special dinner together, what’s important is that kids are involved in this activity. Encourage your children to come up with the recipes. For example, you can ask your child what toppings they might want added onto their cookies, or how much cheese they want to add into the pasta sauce. Agree on the meal and begin cooking together.
Remind them that they are loved
It doesn’t take a lot of time to tell your child that they are loved. So, be sure to tell them every single day that you love them. Show your affection in little ways by leaving a post-it note on their lunch box or by writing ‘I love you’ on the mirror by their toothbrush. What matters is that they feel valued.
Eat meals with them
How often do you share meals with your child? Breakfast is usually rushed, especially during the school week. However, it’s important to share at least one meal a day with the whole family – one meal where everyone can sit down, talk, and have a nice conversation in order to connect and bond. Lunchtime is usually not a feasible option when you have work and your kids have school, so dinner will likely be the best time to share a hearty meal together.
Plan bonding activities
Make the most of your free time. Not working on the weekends? Plan out a fun activity for the whole family. It doesn’t mean having to travel hundreds of miles. It can be as simple as going on a quick trip to a nearby beach or watching an entertaining movie together.
Spending quality time with your little one and creating meaningful connections is important to ensure both your child’s growth and development. Send your little one to a school that shares the same goals as you – Cornerstone Learning Center. Please feel free to give us a call for more information.