Very often your kids don’t want to be with you, especially when they get older. Forget about what you are doing for a few minutes and be in the moment with your kids.
It doesn’t have to be long. Act as though they are the only person you care about at that moment. Make them feel special.
“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future,concentrate the mind on the present moment.” ~Buddha
For example:
• Don’t talk on the cell phone when picking up your kids. Be in the moment with them.
• When eating a meal together don’t answer the phone. You can call back; meals with kids are often short. Be in the moment with them.
• When reading a story at night, just do that, read the story. Be in the moment with them.
• When they want to tell you about their day (and that doesn’t always happen) or tell you a joke, look into their eyes and really listen. Be in the moment with them.
• The car is a great place to talk, so when in the car, again, listen! It’s also a great time to listen to the music they like. Be in the moment with them.
• When your kids want to play cards, play! Be in the moment with them.
Time is an amazing thing. Nothing else exists when you are in the present moment. Try this, take a deep breath and forget about what just happened, forget where you’re supposed to go, forget about what you need at the grocery store, forget when you are going to finish all the laundry. Smile and turn your complete attention to your kids.
Game nights or family dinners are great ways to be in the moment. You can’t always have dinner together in this busy life, but there are other ways to be in the present moment. As mentioned above, the car is a great place to talk especially as they get older and don’t want to look you in the eye. Don’t rush out of the house in the morning. Get up a little earlier so that you can be at the breakfast table to eat or drink your coffee with them, even if you’re not talkingand just paging through a magazine; you’re still there with them. Before they fall asleep, peek in and say something positive, as simple as “Sweet Dreams” or “Thanks for all your help today.”Don’t be afraid to just say, “I love you!” They may not say anything back but it may also be an opportunity for them to talk.
You will never be sorry you spent time with your children when you are reviewing your day.
It’s an investment in your child’s future to give them this everyday attention.
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