On Parenting…

Parenting is the hardest job in the world. We often wonder if we are doing it right, or why there aren’t user manuals for these little humans we are responsible for. There are moments when we can feel overwhelmed and our attention can be divided in so many different directions. We as parents can feel guilty for this division. Somehow we have to find the balance. Providing small windows can help create bonds. This is the concept of giving your full undivided attention at small opportunities throughout the day. This needs to be intentional. When we do things with intention the results can be very beneficial. Kids need some attention throughout the day and if that attention is never fully theirs, they can have behavioral outbursts. The truth is we are unable to give full attention all of the time, but we can give full attention in small moments. Children really want to feel undivided attention from their parents which allows for connection and bonding. So put your phone down, put your book down, put everything down, and try to clear your mind. Be aware and pay attention to how you are providing that undivided, one-on-one connection with your child. This can be very valuable for young children, for toddler‘s, for infants even, for teenagers. So I urge you take the windows of opportunity and allow yourself to clear everything off your plate, and give short periods of time to your child with undivided and uninterrupted attention. This should not be very long but it should happen.

Are you looking for a specific time that this could be valuable? How about at the dinner table? Try placing structure around these windows. For example, while eating dinner put the cell phones down, be in the present moment, and provide conversation starters, or make observations about your kids while eating (e.g. Susie, i noticed that you dressed up more for school today, you looked nice).

Another opportunity of time, how about bath time for toddlers? Or try reading a book to kids at bedtime? What about the teenager, who just before winding down for bed you sit with them, allowing yourself to be available and present for them in whatever he/she is doing?

Got more ideas? Have you had successes in finding windows of time? Please share your comments with other members.