The phrase “spend quality time with your kids” has been emphasized over and over in so many parenting talks for one reason: it is really important. It is important to a child’s development.

The time parents spend with their children could do so much, like help the children understand the lectures in school or get their assignments or projects done on time; it is a way that will help teenagers be enlightened on mind-boggling socio-moral issues such as sex (exactly what a noodle brand is trying to point out with its “fa-meal-y day” campaign); and it will give children the assurance that their parents will always be there for them, no matter what.

Laura Ramirez, author of the parenting book Keepers of the Children, says, “Parents need to be there –they need to be a witness to their children’s lives. That means creating good times, but more importantly, it means being there when things are tough. It means being an active participant in your child’s everyday struggles.”

Just like in all relationships, giving the gift of time is important to nurture love for one another. However, now that times are harder and when both parents are working for the family, how can you make time for your children when you barely have it?

Be alone with your child

Kids sometimes want to have things only to themselves. That is also true when it comes to their relationship with their parents. So it is good to have an “alone time” with your kids once in a while. Dedicate your day off work to your kids. Say Saturday is your off and you have two kids, do the laundry with your elder child in the morning, and then ask your younger child to help you prepare for dinner in the afternoon. And then at night, before you sleep, you can watch DVD as a whole family. The point here is you get to spend time and do what you like doing together.

Have a break with the family

Your everyday work can be taxing, so it is important to have a break. If your schedule permits, drive to your kids’ school and have lunch with them. Fifteen to 30 minutes is enough.

Keep communication lines open

This tip can be helpful to parents who are working nightshift. If you seldom catch your children at home, you can still talk to them and update one another by leaving notes or letters. You can be more creative by making them pancakes for breakfast together with the note. Let your imagination work. This way, your children will still feel your love and be assured that you are just around.

Source:

Parenting Child Development
Lifehack