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"Quality, not quantity;" you've heard that before. So, what exactly is "quality time?" What has to be done differently to infuse time with more QUALITY? And, how do you make sure you are spending quality time with your children? The answer is actually quite easy; make sure your focus is on an activity that you and your child/children enjoy.

In today's face paced, competitive world, we all need downtime, away from stress, deadlines and expectations. Now that so many children are under pressure to perform well in sports and on achievement tests, they need a time they can just relax and enjoy. Crafting with children is a great stress reliever for all of you; and by enjoying crafts as a leisure activity, you are modeling how to live a more healthy and balanced life.

So, what to do?

1-Try different crafts, and let your children explore too. Help your children
pick crafts that are fun and/or relaxing. If you see your child getting
agitated or frustrated, switch to something else more soothing.
2-Work on single individual projects and/or family projects, depending on the
interests each of you have.
3-Talk to your kids! How did their day go? Who is their best friend, favorite
teacher? Connect. Take interest in what they are doing. Discuss their
ideas. Let them help you with your project. Brainstorm on future projects.
Be together!
4-If your child is really proud of a completed craft, put the finished item in
a place of honor.
5-Do not have another agenda or any other expectations. This is not the time to
complete 200 more sachets for the bazaar. And, so what if you hardly ever
complete any projects, and wind up talking more than anything else!
6-Remember, the focus should be on the BEING, not the doing!

For some great craft projects that the kids will enjoy, check out more of the Helium Kids Crafts articles.

Learn more about this author, Cindy Hartzell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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