SPENDING TIME WITH CHILDREN IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN SPENDING MONEY ON YOUR CHILDREN
SPENDING TIME WITH CHILDREN IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN SPENDING MONEY ON YOUR CHILDREN
As a parent, I strive to provide my children with the best life possible. With my busy work schedule and weekend DJing, I often feel guilty for not being at home as much as I would like. But I've realised that spending quality time with my children is more important than giving them material possessions. In this post, I'll share my personal experiences and some insights on why time spent with your children matters more than money spent on them.
Being a parent is undoubtedly a full-time job requiring immense dedication and hard work. I always wanted to give my children the best life possible, but I soon realised that what they need most is not material possessions but my time and attention.
Why Time Matters More Than Money
My Children Needed My Attention I noticed that my children thrived on attention and love, and they needed to know they were valued and loved and had a special place in my heart. I discovered that spending time with my children was the best way to show them how much they mean to me.
Time Helped Build Our Relationship
Spending time with my children helped to strengthen the bond between us. Taking time to play, talk, and listen to them laid the foundation of trust and love that will last a lifetime.
Memories Last Forever
Though material possessions come and go, memories last a lifetime. When I spend time with my children, I create memories that they will cherish forever, which will stay with them long after the toys have been forgotten. Although, this does not stop the endless lists of things they "need".
Time is a Limited Resource
While money can be earned, time is a limited resource. Once it is gone, you can never get it back. By choosing to spend my time with my children, I show them that they are worth more to me than any amount of money. The older I get, the more this hits home.
How I Spend Quality Time with My Children
Playing with Them
I learned that my children loved to play, and playing with them was a fantastic way to bond. Whether playing a game, building some Lego, or playing at the park, playing together is always a fun way to spend time together.
Reading to Them
Reading to my children is an excellent way to help them develop language and literacy skills. It also became a wonderful bonding experience, sharing a love of books.
Cooking Together
Cooking together is an enjoyable way to spend time with my children and teach them essential life skills. Baking cakes or making dinner together, we always bond in the kitchen—especially my daughter.
Exploring Nature
I noticed a significant shift in my children's behaviour when they spent time in nature instead of playing video games or watching TV. Playing in the park or going on a bush walk is a fantastic way to spend time with my children while teaching them about the world around them. I have non-negotiable times blocked off for our park time on some school days. No work and no phone. Just fun.
I Exercise With Them Present
One of the unexpected joys I've discovered is working out at home and having my children join in. It allows us to bond, create shared experiences, and teach them the importance of a healthy lifestyle and self-care. Witnessing their enthusiasm and energy as they participate in the exercises brings joy and accomplishment. By incorporating our children into our home workout routines, we're nurturing a solid physical and emotional well-being foundation while fostering a deeper connection with them.
My personal experiences have taught me that spending time with my children is far more important than spending money on them. Playing, reading, cooking together, exploring nature, and exercising, I built a strong bond with my children that will last a lifetime. So, I encourage you to turn off your phone and TV and spend quality time with your children, and they will thank you for it.
Making Time for Your Children Despite Work Commitments
I understand finding time for your children is difficult, especially when juggling work and other responsibilities. I faced this challenge with my weekend DJing commitments, often leaving me feeling guilty for not being at home. However, I have learned to prioritise and maximise my time with my children.
Tips for Balancing Work and Family Time (Although work-life balance is a myth, in my opinion)
Schedule Quality Time: Just as you would schedule work commitments, make a point to schedule quality time with your children. Mark it on your calendar and treat it as a priority.
Be Present: When you're with your children, be fully present. Put away your phone, avoid distractions, and focus on them. This will make the time you spend together more meaningful.
Create Rituals: Establish routines and rituals your family can look forward to, such as a weekly family movie night or unique weekend plans.
Communicate with Your Partner: Work with your partner to create a balanced schedule that allows you to spend quality time with your children.
Be Flexible: Life is unpredictable, and sometimes plans may change. Be willing to adjust your schedule and make time for your children when unexpected opportunities arise.
Quality time with your children is invaluable; the memories you create together will last a lifetime. So, no matter how busy life gets, make an effort to connect with your children and cherish the moments you share. They will appreciate your love and attention more than any material possessions you could provide.