by Harley James

Created on: December 09, 2009

How could one truly believe that a child's love can be bought? Sure you could give a kid a boatload of gifts, but ultimately does that replace the long term necessity of having you as a parent present in their lives? NO. That gives them a false sense of hope with no light at the end of tunnel. A child wants their parent(s) to take the time to play with them. To spend time with them. Now sure you could buy your son/daughter a gift, but how about one you both could put together or one that you both could play?

When a parent gives of themselves whether it be from the heart or from the wallet, there has to be something to back it up. Children want the reassurance that their Mom/Dad loves them and isn't just trying to buy them off. What better way to show you love and cherish your children then by listening to them and sometimes just stopping what you are doing in your busy life to help them with something they need. Most of the time they just want a bit of your undivided attention; no distractions. Your children will respect and appreciate you more for putting them first.

You could really change the course of your child's life by simply being present. Now granted you may not be the kind of parent who can make all of their football or basketball games, cheerleader competitions, dance recitals or concerts, but just know that when and if you can how much more happier your child will be. That would be better than any expensive gift money can buy!

See I can tell you this from experience and being a single parent myself. I do not recommend it. I don't care how independent of a woman you think you can be. Your children need a loving family. I struggle to be present. If I had my choice, I'd be with my child every single portion of her life. Time goes by so quickly. So cherish and savor every moment you can. Not by replacing yourself with a gift, but by placing yourself in their lives and being a permanent fixture there.

How much more will your children take that legacy into their own lives? How much more love will they give to their own family? Remember that what you do with your child today will be a lasting memory for them always.

I mean seriously, how many gifts can you remember receiving in your childhood compared to the ever present memories of your family?

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