It’s not small, and requires a little planning, but I like to take a day with one child and do something, even if it’s just going to lunch together. It’s a way to make them feel special.
This is such a great reminder of tiny things that can makes a big difference! I love using number 4 and have to remind myself to slow down for it sometimes!
There is magic in giving a child undivided attention. I suppose I do it more easily now as a grandmother, but still, undivided attention can be worked in most anytime. Literally, with little ones, get down at their level and look them directly in the eyes... with a welcoming smile.
Even as adults, we feel special when a person, stops what they're doing, looks us directly in the eye, listens and talks to us.
My now 7-year-old grandson, (who has his second bedroom at our house, his second home) challenges and blesses me. My husband and I help a great deal with his care and daily logistics since our son has sole and whole custody.
From raising kids, I know, I've only got about five years that he will still really want to listen to me.
We have some pretty amazing conversations, in the car (no screen rule and when he's eating, (no-screen rule), and good chats at bedtime with casual conversation from questions I have made a habit of asking him.
What was the best thing that happened in your day?
Was there anything hard that happened today?
Should we pray? (I don't insist)
Anything you want to ask me before you go to sleep?
Finally, he still asks me to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star!" Sweet innocence prevails! :-)
Anyway, he (my grandson) gave me a big compliment this week.
Grandma, he said, "Some old people and some grandma's are really crabby. They don't smile."
Me, "How about me Ellis?"
Him, "You are almost always happy. You aren't crabby very often. But why does your skin look old?"
My response, "Because I am getting older. My skin has lots of years on it!" :-)
Loved this! One of my absolute favorite childhood memories with my parents was lunchtime, when we’d all sit around the table and share stories about our day at school and work. That simple moment built so much quality time, great conversations, laughs, and a chance to disconnect. Today, I do the same with my kids, and it’s easily one of my favorite parts of the day. ❤️
I agree. Lunch is when I have the chance to really talk and share with them. If I asked them during dinner how was your day, the answer is always …i don’t know.
Love #4. ❤️
It’s not small, and requires a little planning, but I like to take a day with one child and do something, even if it’s just going to lunch together. It’s a way to make them feel special.
I needed this one today! Thank you!
Happy that you found it!!! 💕
Such great reminders and I love how each one is easy to pick up and weave into bus days.
Reading books with my littles is my go-to! Low energy, and yet so impactful!
Ok but what if I’m doing a lot of voices and one book takes much longer than 5 minutes? 🤣
This happens to me a lot 😂
I love all of these! 💙
I like doing riddles with them. Or creating riddles for each other.
Love this Ana! These are beautiful, tender moments of connection that are “easy wins” for big families. 💕
These are fantastic, and fantastically do-able. And even with a teen I find that most of these still open doors for connections.
Yes, very easy and no plan required!!
This is such a great reminder of tiny things that can makes a big difference! I love using number 4 and have to remind myself to slow down for it sometimes!
There is magic in giving a child undivided attention. I suppose I do it more easily now as a grandmother, but still, undivided attention can be worked in most anytime. Literally, with little ones, get down at their level and look them directly in the eyes... with a welcoming smile.
Even as adults, we feel special when a person, stops what they're doing, looks us directly in the eye, listens and talks to us.
My now 7-year-old grandson, (who has his second bedroom at our house, his second home) challenges and blesses me. My husband and I help a great deal with his care and daily logistics since our son has sole and whole custody.
From raising kids, I know, I've only got about five years that he will still really want to listen to me.
We have some pretty amazing conversations, in the car (no screen rule and when he's eating, (no-screen rule), and good chats at bedtime with casual conversation from questions I have made a habit of asking him.
What was the best thing that happened in your day?
Was there anything hard that happened today?
Should we pray? (I don't insist)
Anything you want to ask me before you go to sleep?
Finally, he still asks me to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star!" Sweet innocence prevails! :-)
Anyway, he (my grandson) gave me a big compliment this week.
Grandma, he said, "Some old people and some grandma's are really crabby. They don't smile."
Me, "How about me Ellis?"
Him, "You are almost always happy. You aren't crabby very often. But why does your skin look old?"
My response, "Because I am getting older. My skin has lots of years on it!" :-)
What a sweet story!! I love this, Judy!
love this Ana.
We think connection is this big grand gesture, and it absolutely can be. But it’s also a million moments like this. Small but significant.
Let them help is powerful, doing life together instead of distracting them. 💕
Sit down for breakfast. I try so hard, and I just know they love it.
Love these 10 Ways, Ana, they’re so true! 💕
Loved this! One of my absolute favorite childhood memories with my parents was lunchtime, when we’d all sit around the table and share stories about our day at school and work. That simple moment built so much quality time, great conversations, laughs, and a chance to disconnect. Today, I do the same with my kids, and it’s easily one of my favorite parts of the day. ❤️
I agree. Lunch is when I have the chance to really talk and share with them. If I asked them during dinner how was your day, the answer is always …i don’t know.