A few weeks ago, I shared insights on creating quality time for teens. This time, let's focus on fun ways to foster connections with younger children. When our children are younger, we often have more opportunities to build lasting bonds and memories, ensuring our family stays connected in the long term. I find it so sad to hear stories of parents and grown children estranged due to various reasons, especially when anger, pride and regret prevent reconciliation, making it seem like years spent together were wasted.
When I think about my own family, I recall a routine, common in many homes, where my partner would play with our kids when he came home whilst I made dinner and had a few quiet moments. Bath time was a highlight, filled with laughter as they strung monkeys from a Barrel of Monkeys game across the bath, played with squirt toys, wind-up boats and made mohawks out of bubbly shampoo hair. The joy of those moments still brings a smile to my face, even more than 10 years later.
Now, let's think about your family dynamics and how simple, time-efficient actions can create unbreakable bonds. Despite the time constraints many parents face, building memories doesn't require entire days. Small, regular blocks of time can work wonders.
Can you spare 10 or 15 minutes at different points in the day? Perhaps aim for two of these each weekday—morning, after school, dinner, or bedtime.
Now, let's explore some ideas to enrich your time and create lasting memories:
Chatting over breakfast at the bar
Involving your child in meal prep while discussing your day
Sharing a meal and expressing gratitude for the best parts of the day
Engaging in whatever your child is playing when you first arrive home from work
Making lunch boxes together
Helping with reading or math homework
Enjoying bedtime stories or making up your own silly stories
Sharing jokes
Cuddling on the couch while watching a quick YouTube clip or TV show
Practicing sports skills like kicking, throwing or shooting hoops together
Watching dance or gymnastics routines (bonus points if you join in!)
On weekends or during holidays, when you have more time, think about doing activities that allow for deeper connections:
Choosing an activity from your Family Intention Jar
Planning a weekend getaway
Taking a day trip to the beach or going for a hike
Attending an art class together
Supporting your child at sports games or dance classes
Going on a holiday
Visiting a café or having a picnic
Arranging special one-on-one "dates" with each child
The possibilities are endless once we pause to consider them! If this resonates with you, don't hesitate to dive in. Don't wait for the perfect moment or convince yourself that your kids don't care. Your efforts will be rewarded with smiles, laughter, and strengthened bonds. Consider scheduling 15-minute blocks in your calendar for non-negotiable kid time and witness the magic of more fun, more memories, and deeper connections with your loved ones.
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