Parent and child quality time is vital to every kid’s development and self-worth. It helps build character, builds a personal relationship between child and parent and helps kids form lasting and meaningful relationships with others as they grow older. There are countless benefits to this quality time and even kids know how important it can be. When kids tell their parents what they want from them, it does well to listen. Chances are it will benefit and enrich both child and parent in ways beyond measure.
1. Read to me! Reading is a wonderful way to spend personal time with children. Sharing this pastime helps kids develop an interest in and a love for reading, which can drastically help their academic success and promote a lifelong love of learning. Sharing a book together creates special memories that both parent and child will cherish forever. Personalized books from KD Novelties, can help create more unique reading memories and unique experiences to share with one another.
2. Tuck me in at night and tell me stories! Sending kids off to bed with a proper goodnight is very personal and helps build an intimate relationship that will help kids as they grow older by helping them create meaningful relationships. Not only that, but it will help parents and children have meaningful relationships together that will last. Telling kids stories about when their parents were young gives them an idea of their parents childhood and will help bring them closer through these special personal moments shared.
3. Play more often! Playing with kids and allowing them to play more can actually help their creativity and individuality. Giving their imagination exercise helps them develop key skills and by parents playing along with them, gives them an opportunity to teach them valuable lessons, in a fun atmosphere, while creating memories together.
4. Spend more time with me, not just with my other brothers and sisters! Spending quality time with kids should be an individual experience. While it is still important to spend time as a family, spending time with each child individually helps develop their self worth and their unique sense of self. It also shows them that their parents care about who they are, what they like, and what makes them a special individual.
5. Talk to me at dinner! Kids really benefit from conversation. Asking them about their day and hearing about their parents’ days help them feel like part of the family, and not just a kid. This also helps them develop confidence in their thoughts and feelings knowing that they are valued.
6. Give me hugs and kisses more often! Showing affection regularly shows kids that they are loved and valued. Plus it always feels nice to know that someone cares, at any age.
7. Discipline me when I need it! It may sound odd, but disciplining children when it is deserved shows that their parents care about their actions and decisions. This active role teaches kids about consequence and gives their fast developing lives more meaning and value. Give them reasons for the discipline and especially because you care. They won’t like it in the beginning but will be very thankful in the end.
8. Share some of my favorite things with me! When parents spend time watching their children’s favorite shows, listening to their favorite music, and reading their favorite books with them, kids feel that their opinions are valued. It is also a great way to spend some quality time and grow close, getting to know what one another likes and dislikes.
9. Leave me notes! Leaving personal messages in lunch bags or in their pockets when kids go off to school or daycare remind them that they are being thought of and that someone loves them.
10. Take care of me and make sure I am healthy! Feeding kids healthy foods and being mindful of their health and well-being not only shows them that their parents care but it also helps them learn to take care of themselves as they grow older.
Teaching children valuable lessons while also building a strong personal bond with them will not only help them develop, but will enrich both parties involved. We urge you to listen to what your kids are saying and keep these pointers in mind.