There are times where I feel that I haven’t connected with my kids as much as I would like.
Lately, I’ve overused phrases like “not right now” or “I’m in the middle of doing something.” Of course, mom guilt consumes me at the end of the day if I never actually take time to connect with my kids.
Therefore, I knew I had to figure out how to balance my time with my kids, especially on the days that I worked. That meant I needed to adjust my own behavior and mindset in order to have a better connection with my kiddos.
Trying to have and keep that balance is not easy for anyone. For instance, some days I have that time to set aside. But on other days, I don’t, especially if I am emotionally exhausted. However, when I am mindful about connecting with my kids, I have found that these five things help:
1. Put your phone down.
The more time I am on my phone, the less connected I am. As a result, I’m less likely and willing to get down to my child’s level and play.
2. Set time aside for play.
Set aside a certain amount of time to spend with your kids and schedule it into your day. I know, it sounds ridiculous to think that someone needs to schedule time with their kids. But this isn’t just during dinner, this is special playtime. It always seems like there is not enough time in the day. If you set a schedule for 30 minutes or an hour of dedicated playtime, you can accomplish that before getting busy with other tasks again.
I like to schedule that time for when I get home from work. I either take my kiddos outside and play with chalk with them, ask them how their day was, give them hugs, or eat a snack with them.
3. At the end of the day, ask these three things.
What was the best part of your day?
What was a not-so-great part of your day?
What was the funniest part of your day?
Asking these three questions will help in connecting with your kiddo. My sister-in-law told me about this tip, and I thought it was such a great idea that I wanted to try it out. We ask these questions during dinner time, and each of us takes turns.
4. Get active with them.
Go on a nature walk with them. Help them practice if they are in a sport. One thing that we like to do is yoga together. Cosmic Kids Yoga is a fun, creative way to get active and connect with your kids.
5. Cuddle and hug.
Cuddling with your kiddo is a given. However, those cuddles are so important. Cuddling brings connection, comfort, safety, and security. It also releases oxytocin and can decrease stress hormones.
Being intentional about playtime has helped me connect with my kids. What do you do to connect with your kids when life feels too busy?
Originally published November 2020.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
