How to Connect with Your Kids in a Busy World
By Sandy Schroeder
Each family is different, but strong families may have some things in common. Most of them laugh a lot. Often they have pets that they adore. They talk frequently over dinner, on the weekends, and whenever they can. And most important, they understand and value each other.
Intuitively, you usually know what will work with your family. Yes, they would love more tacos. No, they won’t be thrilled with a main dish of roasted veggies, but they will be OK with it if there is beef or chicken too. Yes, they would like to camp more. No, they don’t want to do a garden.
We all have pet theories on ways to keep families on track, but here are some suggestions to try from theparentcue.com.
Use a bulletin board to connect - Everybody can post pictures, notes, suggestions and once a week you can talk about what to do next.
Do surprise outings - Spur of the moment biking to the park or short hikes with sandwiches works.
Keep daily connections going - A few minutes to talk after dinner or before bedtime can keep parents aware of what’s going on. A lot can be missed when the whole week sails by and nobody talks.
Work on favorite foods - If you are lucky you can slip in a fair amount of veggies with avocado tostadas, black bean tacos, or veggie pizza. The more homemade favorites you establish, the less likely you will fall into a steady run of takeouts.
Take work breaks - You may have a loaded schedule, but slipping in a few afternoons off or weekends away could give you and your family a real boost.
Laugh and play - Whenever little opportunities pop up, take them to have fun with your kids. Some of those spontaneous moments can create the lasting links everyone really needs.
Slip a note in their lunches - Little notes with funny sayings and a special treat can remind your child that you care.
Create a map - For young children, your job may seem a million miles away. Do a special cartoon map showing your house, your job and the two of you connected by a long bright red string.
Bring travel gifts back - If you travel, be sure to bring back something that your kids really want. It doesn’t have to be big, but it does have to key into what they are doing.
Staying in touch is an ongoing task, but so worth the effort. As they grow older they will stretch their wings and move out into the world. Knowing you were there for them makes a difference.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Columbus, Ga.