by Kelly Greenbaum

Created on: October 03, 2009

In today's society, "quality time", is more important than ever, due to our hectic and demanding schedules. Children need our attention regardless of how old they are. Many times children are also felt to be under pressure with their education and extra-curricular activities; they can be as busy as the parents. Here are some ways in which you can feel connected to your children even if you all have busy schedules.

On the way to school or on the way home can be some valuable time for you and your child. This is a great time to talk about school and friends. As long as you are listening to your child and making them feel engaged you are having quality time. Try not to wine or complain about your day, before or after school, as it can have a negative impact on how they feel about their day.

Meal-time is another wonderful opportunity to spend some quality time with your children, whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner. If you have to, make a weekly date and then make it special. Children realize when you are trying to be there for them and they appreciate the effort. We had a date night with our kids every week and they loved it. We would either, go to the movies, out to eat, cook something together at home, or anything they wanted to do, because they knew the time was set aside for them, and that meant a lot to them.

Another great way to stay involved with your children is to take a favorite hobby of theirs and make it something you interest yourself in. Start asking them questions about something they love and watch their faces light up as they explain to you their latest project or goal. For instance, my son loves history, so I ask him questions concerning what he is studying in his history class. Not only does he appreciate the time, I have found you might actually learn something in the process. Another thing my son love's, are the shows Survivor, and Cash Cab. It means the world to him for me to sit down and watch them with him. Thank god for all of the recording devices available so we can tape it and watch it together, in spite of our schedules.

Quality time does not have to mean a long time, but time often spent, even if it is just doing little things together, as long as it's frequent. Frequency is the key to developing a long lasting, healthy relationship with your children. They want to know your keeping your eyes on them, even if they refuse to admit it.

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