8 tips to be present with your child

As parents, we all know how challenging it can be to juggle our responsibilities. All whilst trying to be fully present with our kids. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to get caught up in distractions, especially our mobile phones.

But fear not, being present with your kids is possible, and it starts with mindfulness and mindful parenting. Here are some valuable tips to help you cherish quality time with your children and create meaningful connections.

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Reduce phone time

It’s all too common to get lost in the digital world, but our children deserve our undivided attention. Make a conscious effort to put your phone away when you’re spending time with your kids. Let them feel valued and important by being fully present in the moment. This simple act of giving your children your full attention can make a world of difference in your relationship with them.

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to feel the constant pull of notifications and messages. However, when you set aside distractions and truly engage with your child, you create a safe and nurturing environment. This can then foster open communication and bonding.

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Schedule fun time

Life can get busy, but scheduling dedicated fun time with your kids can make a world of difference. Block out this time on your calendar, so you don’t have to worry about work or other commitments. By setting aside this special time, you can be fully present and engaged, creating beautiful memories with your children.

Life is full of responsibilities, but don’t forget to prioritise moments of joy and playfulness with your child. It could be playing games or going on a nature walk. Even engaging in creative activities together, these moments of fun foster a strong emotional connection and create lasting bonds.

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Say no to other things to say yes to your kids

We often face conflicting priorities, but when it comes to our children, they should always come first. Be strong enough to say no to other distractions when you know your kids need you. Instead of picking up the phone when you shouldn’t, prioritise your children’s needs and be there for them wholeheartedly.

Saying no to distractions allows you to say yes to the present moment with your child. Embrace the opportunity to be fully present and create meaningful interactions. Remember, your child won’t remember the text message you replied to, but they will cherish the moments you spent together.

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Notice when you’re not being mindful

Mindfulness begins with awareness. Take notice of moments when you feel less present with your kids. Recognising these moments allows you to make a conscious effort to do better.

It’s okay to acknowledge that you’re not feeling mindful. By doing so, you can actively work on being more present in your children’s lives.

It’s normal to experience moments of distraction or preoccupation. But, by being aware of these instances, you can gently bring yourself back to the present moment. By taking some deep breaths and focusing. Practice self-compassion as you cultivate mindfulness in your parenting journey.

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Practice just listening to your child

As parents, we instinctively want to help and fix things for our children. However, sometimes all they need is for us to listen attentively without jumping in with solutions. Practice the art of just listening to your child, giving them the space to express themselves fully. By being a mindful listener, you can better understand your child’s feelings and needs.

Listening is a powerful tool in connecting with your child on a deeper level. Allow them to express themselves without interruption. Let them know that their thoughts and feelings are valued. By actively listening, you create a safe and supportive space for your child to share their emotions.

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Schedule “me” time

Feeling overwhelmed and stressed can hinder our ability to be present with our kids. It’s crucial to take care of yourself too. Schedule “me” time to recharge and refresh.

Don’t feel guilty about taking this time for yourself; it’s essential for your well-being. When you prioritise self-care, you’ll have the mental space to be fully present when spending time with your child.

“Me” time is not selfish; it’s an investment in your overall well-being as a parent. It could be reading a book, taking a walk or indulging in a hobby. Regardless, this time for yourself allows you to show up as your best self for your child.

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Early bedtimes

Establishing early bedtimes not only ensures that your child gets enough sleep. It also allows you to have some precious “me” time as a parent. Utilise this quiet time to unwind, engage in self-care, or pursue activities that bring you joy.

By taking care of yourself, you can approach parenting with a more mindful and present mindset. This is one of the most simple pieces of parenting advice.

Early bedtimes create a peaceful transition from the busy day to quiet evenings. It also provides an opportunity for you to recharge. This way, you wake up refreshed and ready to be fully present with your child the next day.

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Childhood doesn’t last forever

As parents, we all have moments where we may feel overwhelmed or frustrated with certain tasks, such as changing a diaper. However, remind yourself that childhood doesn’t last forever. Embrace each moment, even the challenging ones, as they are fleeting and will soon be cherished memories. Practicing mindfulness helps you appreciate the little moments and create a deeper connection with your child.

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Embracing mindfulness and mindful parenting can transform the way you engage with your child and strengthen your bond. Being fully present with your kids allows you to savour every precious moment of parenthood. Through this, you can create a lifetime of beautiful memories together.

At Pareful, we understand the struggles of being a parent, and we’re here to support you on your mindful journey. We provide valuable tools and resources for a more connected and joyful parenting experience.

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