Spending time with your kids helps create a better life for them. It helps create strong bonds, love, connections and relationships between each family member. The feeling of security, instilling family values, boosting confidence – are some of many benefits of spending quality time with children. Time is one of the most important things we need to provide our children with, as it leaves them with precious memories that last a lifetime. The term “parent” is of utmost significance to a child, as parents have the biggest influence in the child’s upbringing. Let me take you through some tips/tricks on how to go about this:
- Proactively blocking time in your schedule for your child: It is essential to remember that they care less about the hours you spend with them and more about how you spend that time. This might sound silly but you have to go down to their level to be part of their world – maybe give them the option to decide how you use your time. Children should feel secure in that they have someone to turn to and look upto. Being together gives them a sense of belonging and deepens ties.
- Thinking back to one’s own childhood to relate to and understand our children: They deserve our empathy and making them feel heard will benefit your relationship in the long run. It is human nature to be fond of people who give you their undivided attention. Similarly, showing your child you are involved in what they have to say is essential – this could mean putting any other work on pause. If we do not teach children important lessons at home, they are likely to look for other sources. This is not to diminish the importance of letting them learn their own lessons at times, but more so a reminder to support them in their self-growth to a point where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences and learning with you.
- Showing affection and adoration that you feel for your children: This can be in the form of giving them hugs/kisses as well as praising something they’ve done to provide validation. Showing interest in their lives helps strengthen family values. It comes down to the little things you do to make them feel adored at mealtimes, bedtimes, greeting hello/goodbye and celebrating special occasions. This might seem far fetched but you are dictating how they will treat family in the future.
Being a parent can be challenging and in those times the above mentioned things might seem easier said than done, but it is all about maintaining a balance to promote a healthy life for your kids. It is understandable that you need to maintain a sense of authority at times, but the above is a reminder to make them feel trusted and appreciated. Spend more time together, enjoy the little things and getting through rough times might be improved.
