There is no denying the fact that people are busier than they were just 20 years ago. You may think that you simply don’t have the time to truly connect with your kids. This couldn’t be further from the truth. In just 15 minutes a day, you can make a huge impact on your children’s lives. Let’s look at how to connect with your kids in 15 minutes a day… because we all have at least that much time.
How to Connect With Your Kids: 6 Simple Tips
Before we get started, I want to make it clear that I’m not saying that you should only spend 15 minutes a day with your kids. Obviously, you should aim for more than that. However, if you work a job like I do, which can be unpredictable at time, putting you at working several hours past the time your shift was supposed to end, these tips can be helpful.
So, here they are:
Read to Your Child
Reading to your child is something that will create lasting memories. You can either curl up on the couch for a few minutes after dinner or spend time reading to your kids at bedtime. Regardless, this is a wonderful way to connect.
Our son in s a big bookworm, so this is perfect for us. Some series that he enjoys are (these are affiliate links): Little Critter, Elephant and Piggie, Pigeon books, and the Dojo books.
Play Catch Before Dinner
There is something timeless about playing catch with your kids. Tossing a ball back and forth has been bringing dads and kids together for generations. If you’re the type that’s not great when it comes to talking, this is a great. You don’t even have to talk to connect with your kids this way.
Here are a few more father and son bonding ideas if you need them.
Have Dinner Together
There is truly something important about a family sitting down for a meal together. Kids that eat with their parents are better behaved and even do better in school. Always make time to have dinner as a family.
Ask About His Day
Simply showing that you care enough to ask about his day can go a long way in creating a bond. Sit down and have a snack together before school and talk about his day.
Help with Homework
Let’s be honest. Today’s homework is so much harder than it was when we were kids. However, sitting down and attempting to help your kids will mean a lot to them. Just be prepared to feel irritated at how simple math has become harder than it has to be.
Keep It Simple
Last, but not least, don’t over-complicate things. Dads get into this mindset that everything has to be perfect. It doesn’t. If you take your kids fishing and it rains, don’t let that discourage you. Stop and have breakfast at your kids’ favorite restaurant and go on with your day by doing something else. The important thing is that you tried. That’s what your kids will remember.
You really can learn how to connect with your kids in just 15 minutes a day. Whether you read to your kids or eat dinner together, simply being there for your kids will mean so much.
