Being present with your child is one of the best gifts you can give them. Here we share some tips on how to be more present with your child and why it matters.
We get it. Parenting isn’t easy and finding the time and mental and emotional energy to fully engage with our children can be a challenge. But the pay-off is significant and very much worth the effort. Here are some actions to take to help you be more present with your child:
Schedule some play time sessions each week
It’s not realistic to try and be present with your child around the clock. More important than the length of time is consistency and your level of presence during those play times. Better to schedule three 30-minute sessions in a week than try to find a two or three hour block of time.
The key is that you are completely distraction free during this time – no phone, no multi-tasking. Let your child choose the activity and just be with them in the moment.
Put the phone elsewhere
Studies have shown that just the presence of a phone in the room creates distraction so switch it off or to silent and leave it in another room.
Review your family schedule
Each week, take a look at everything you have planned for the week. Look for anything that isn’t absolutely necessary and can be skipped to create more free time.
Practice just listening
As a parent, we often automatically jump into ‘fix it’ mode if our child tells us about something that’s bothering them. Try just listening. Often times your child will feel better just for expressing themselves. Plus if you give them space, they will often find their own answers, which is empowering.
Fill your own cup
Don’t forget to do something for yourself each day. Even if it’s only for a few minutes, do something that ‘fills your cup’. It might be exercise, a cup of tea with a magazine, meditation, whatever feels good to you.
Why Being Present With Your Child Matters
When you make time to really be with your child – to listen to them and to actively engage with them doing things they’re interested in – your active presence makes a long-term difference for their wellbeing.
Self Esteem
When you are present with your child regularly and involved in their life and their interests, it helps them feel secure. This in turn helps them to build their confidence and self esteem.
Mental Health
Children of involved parents have fewer problems with their mental health. They are better able to regulate their emotions and experience more positive emotional states.
Communication & Social Skills
Family relationships are key in children’s learning, especially when it comes to social skills.
The more time you’re able to spend with your child, talking and relating, the greater the benefits for them in learning how to socialise and communicate. These are critical, foundational life skills.