Put down the phone
Our smartphones are convenient but they also
take up a lot of our free time, both for parents
and kids. Set aside an hour or two a week to put
the phones in time out and just talk to each other.
Some families may also find it helpful to make
mealtimes a no-phone zone. This is a great way
to spur conversation without distractions. If you
find your conversations in a lull, try a would you
rather question. For example, “Would you rather
never have homework or never have to eat food
you didn’t like? Why?” Not only will these get
conversation flowing, you might also find out some
things you didn’t know about your child.
Create a helper
If setting aside chores and errands isn’t an
option, ask your child to come alongside as a helper.
My kids have helped me cook, do laundry, run
errands, match socks, and rake leaves. Often our
best conversations are while we are working on a
project together. Not only will you get your chores
done and spend time with your child, you are also
showing them the value of hard work without
even trying.
What we spend our time doing shows our
children what we value. With some extra effort
we can sneak in moments of quality time with our
children that add up to a strong relationship. When
we are intentional and make our kids a priority, it
will not go unnoticed by them.
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