The good news is, kids want to spend time with their parents! So the best thing parents can do is take advantage of this desire, and spend time with their kids as often as possible. Even the simple things like having your child help you wash the dishes, take out the garbage, or work in the yard. Some of the best ways to spend quality time with your children, and to let them know you love them are...
- Eating meals together
- Help them with their homework
- Talk to them about their day, and show sincere interest
- Make time for them
- Listen to what they have to say
- Support them in the things they are doing...
It is vital that you keep the line of communication open with your children. By taking time for your kids, and showing an interest in their lives, they will feel more comfortable talking to you which will open the lines of communication.
Another important thing for parents to remember is that even though life is stressful, we cannot take our stress out on our kids. One thing parents can do to avoid this is to set aside personal time, if only 15-20 minutes daily. This personal time could be used for reading the newspaper, take a shower/bath, exercise, or meditate, to name a few options.
It is not always easy for parents to take time out of their work schedule for their children. It would be helpful if employers, both governmental and local, would provide employees with "parent time." This could be something that would allow working parents easier access to being there for their children. It would allow employees with children to have more flexible hours, and easy access to time off when there is an emergency with their child.
