Total workload – the combined time parents spend in their jobs and household or family care has risen, particularly for single parents and dual-earner couples.
So, parents often feel like they don’t spend enough time with their children. This is probably true since they are too busy working long hours. Also, the exhaustion and lengthy commutes are to blame.
The time they do spend together, it’s filled with staring at screens, like watching videos, TV nights, cinema, computer games, or the parents finishing the work they have left. Parents when out of work could be sidetracked by chores as well. Most of the conversations they have with their kids are about ordering them what to do – like homework and chores.
Do you ever wonder why people’s most cherished and warmest memories are of their holidays when they were children? Parents reconnect with children on their holidays by exploring new places, teaching new skills like swimming or skiing, and family activities where children take the lead.
Our everyday lives a far from holidays, but try to include activities in your days that would give them the feel as they were on a holiday.
Play their games
Whether ‘real’ games or even video games, learn how to play and experience that part of your child’s world. You’ll spend a fun and relaxed time together. And kids need to relax, too. I must mention here that parents aren’t the only to blame for not spending enough time together. Children nowadays spend most time involved in school life, and they do many extracurricular activities and attend tuition classes.
Take more walks
There’s something special in walking and talking. Don’t lose priceless moments by driving them to a piano lesson or the park. Slow down your life pace, walk, and talk about everything – share your thoughts, ask them how they feel, and let them tell you what happened in school. These unscripted moments with them are the best!
Have theme nights
Turn the kitchen into an Italian bistro or Chinese restaurant once a week. The kids will be excited and have fun. At those moments, they are more energized in the conversations. These special nights are also an opportunity to involve them in cooking.
Serve popcorn and banana splits
Establish fun treats that will become special since they’ll happen occasionally. Something like Summer Saturday-afternoon sundae, popcorn on a game night, or hot chocolate on a movie night. Baked apple with raisins and cinnamon works, too!
The food isn’t the point, just helps in making the point. Special treats and fun foods are memory makers and conversation starters. Children will remember the occasion that called for a special treat. And they will remember they shared those occasions with you.
Remember, you’re doing fine! Stop worrying about how many minutes you spend with your child! Focus on turning that time into memorable moments. Make the most of everything and spend meaningful time with them. Happy children make good adults and amazing parents one day. But, happy children need happy parents, so relax and enjoy your life.
And from now on, think of the time not spent together as an opportunity for your children to become more independent.