Enjoy Your Children More - Five Tips
1. Slow Down
Rushing back and forth to meetings, practices, play-dates and other activities can keep you away from places that build and strengthen your relationship (and enjoyment) of your child. What places?
- Your child's bedside where you can share a silly story at bedtime or listen to him share the best/worst parts of today or what she is looking forward to tomorrow; or even watch your child sleep and dream.
- The kitchen where you can prepare a meal or bake cupcakes together.
- The kitchen table where you can play a game or share a craft project.
- The garage where you can share the experience of building something together.
- The garden where you can plant and tend fruit, flowers or vegetables
2. Listen
It isn't just on television that kids say the darndest things. When we really listen to our kids we hear that they are funny, wise, insightful, compassionate, silly....what will you learn about your kids today?
3. Follow Your Child's Lead
Sure the buck stops with you, but you don't have to be in charge all the time. Open yourself up to all sorts of possibilities by following your child in a floor game, listening to music of your child's choosing, throwing the ball around, hitting the nail salon, or whatever your child likes to do. Chances are when you reach out to your child, your child will reach back.
4. Be Consistent and Clear in Your Expectations
We all (usually) do better when we know what is expected of us. Children are no exception. Be sure your expectations are age appropriate and your limits are for things that really matter. If the behavior doesn't conflict with your values, is not unsafe, or is just an annoyance, ignore it...let's face it, everyone has a habit that can be considered annoying. Even parents!
5. Create Family Rituals and Traditions
Rituals and traditions help keep family relationships grounded; in fact, they are among the ties that bind. Sharing special times with loved ones creates warm feelings that we can rely on during the rocky times. Traditions don't have to be all consuming. You can keep them simple and still have fun.
Some examples:
- Friday night pizza or fish-fry
- Nightly bedtime story
- Roasting marshmallows on the first cold night of the season
- Sledding or making snow angels after the first snowfall
- Sharing stories or verses from your book of faith
- Attending service at your place of worship
- Family meetings or family game night
- Viewing family photos or videos on birthdays
Enjoy your children!
Barbara Gibson - Parenting is a joy and a challenge. Each day I learn something new about myself. I also grow in understanding and appreciation of my own ...
