Staying Connected With Our Kids

One-on-One Time
We often overlook one of the easiest ways to connect with our kids—spending time with them solo. This is especially important in a family with more than one child. You can make it as elaborate or as simple as you want. Overall, it’s better to have regular, one-on-one time with each of your children than it is to make every time together extra special.

Kate Orson, a Hand in Hand parenting instructor, recommended setting a timer for 15 to 20 minutes, then telling your child it’s “special” time. “Then you do whatever he or she choose together for that set time. During special time, you keep your phone off, and don’t multitask,” she said. “It’s all about showering your child with warm attention, and letting them take the lead.”

In our family, we’ve picked a meal out together as our special time called Breakfast With Mom or Dad. We have a rotation that ensures each child goes out with mom or dad every other month. The schedule is posted on the fridge, so each child knows when it’s time for his or her turn. It’s something that we all look forward to, and it has really helped my husband and me stay in touch with our kids.