Often parents try to compensate for the lack of time with expensive gifts, freedom of action. But it is better to spend a quality half an hour a day with your child than two hours trying to balance between the child, work reports and cooking dinner.
What do you mean quality?
- Don't get distracted. Sit next to your child, look into his eyes, turn off the TV, and even put your phone on silent mode. The child must realize that he or she has your full attention.
- Actively listen to him. Ask questions, get specifics, let me talk to you.
- Try to communicate with just the two of you. If there are other children in the family, spread the time around, but try to be alone with each child. It is important for children to feel special.
- Use all modes of contact: looking, listening, touching. Teens may not admit that they still need hugs, but it's a fact.
How to find the time
Put your child on a schedule. Yes, it sounds tough, but you can also plan such communication in advance. A mom-entrepreneur shares her experience: "In my diary, I write down not only work meetings, but also family plans. For example, watching a movie on Saturday night or going to the park. When things are planned, it's easier to accomplish them."
Plan household chores together with your child. Of course, "Don't get distracted" won't work here, but there are advantages to doing things together. You can teach your child to bake pancakes, take the dog for a walk together, or organize the toys in their room.
Communicate when you eat breakfast, lunch or dinner. Ask about plans or find out how your day is going. But communicating with your child doesn't mean talking only about your child. Tell about your joys and difficulties at work, remember funny stories from your childhood (kids love that).
Think about what you can do together with your child. For example, go shopping together or take him or her to work with you if possible.
