You may have been spending more time with your family this year due to COVID-19.
Otherwise, with a long workday and commute, you might hardly see them during the
week. This could be an opportunity to become more intentional about quality time.
Some studies have found that the average family spends less than 40 minutes
together on weekdays. However, they usually try to catch up on weekends when
family time expands to about 3 hours.
Other studies have shown that even a few minutes of togetherness sprinkled throughout
the day can strengthen family ties. Small gestures make a big difference.
Find out more about how to nurture the important relationships in your life. Try
these techniques for maximizing quality time.
Quality Time with Your Children
Your kids are going to consume your time one way or another. Build them up now to
avoid bailing them out later. Proactive parenting will help your children to become
more resilient and make wiser choices.
Use these strategies:
1. Pay attention. Boost your child’s self-esteem and social skills by giving them
your undivided attention. Turn the TV and social media off. Put aside thoughts about sales
reports and electric bills. Listen closely to what they have to say and show your
enthusiasm.
2. Dine together. Enjoy family dinners. Linger around the table or plan games and other activities
for afterwards. You can make an evening out of doing arts and crafts
3. Play and sing. Too many structured activities can crowd out time for
independent play. Leave room in your schedule for laughter and silliness.
4. Have deep conversations. Earn your child’s trust. They’ll be more likely to
confide in you when they’re struggling. You can also use news stories and
movies as prompts to discuss important issues.
5. Go on vacation. Use your personal leave time. Family outings create lasting
memories, and you may feel more relaxed away from home.
Quality Time for You
When you honor your needs, you increase your capacity to care for your loved ones. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
Keep these tips in mind:
1. Work out. An active lifestyle is essential for your wellbeing. You’ll also be
serving as a positive role model for your kids.
2. Eat healthy. Prepare nutritious meals and snacks for your family and yourself.
Give your kids age-appropriate kitchen tasks so they can pitch in and start
forming wholesome habits.
3. Sleep well. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. You’ll be a more effective
parent when you’re well rested.
With enough planning and effort, you can share more quality time with the ones you
love. Strengthening your connections brings more happiness and stability into your
life and creates a brighter future for your children.
