The second thing you can do to ensure that your kids feel as important as they are is to focus on quality versus quantity. What does quality time look like? It’s not about thinking, “Oh! I spent eight hours working, so I need to give my kids eight hours.” When we spend quality time with our kids and are fully present, they don’t watch the clock. They don’t notice that it’s only 15 minutes because, during quality time, we’re shutting down our phones, removing distractions, and making it all about them.
One thing I do with my kids is to ask them, “Make a list of things you’d like to do one-on-one with Mom.” That way, when I have the list, I can choose an activity based on what I have time for that day. Sometimes it’s only 15-20 minutes because it’s been a busy day for both of us, with their extracurricular activities and my job. But even with a short amount of time, they know they’re important. After all, why are we busy as parents? Because we want to give our kids a great life, and part of that means making them a priority too. So, focus on giving them the quality of your attention rather than just a quantity of time spent in busyness.
Ultimately, our kids remember how we made them feel more than how much time we spent with them. Quality time is a gift that shows them they are truly valued, reinforcing their confidence and trust in us. Life will always bring busy days, but even in those times, showing up for our kids in small, meaningful ways strengthens our bond and helps them feel secure. Let’s be intentional with those precious moments we carve out, whether they last five minutes or an hour, because each moment of quality time is an investment in their happiness, well-being, and growth.
Listen to the full episode here:
“How busy parents find time with their kids?”
For more parenting content, visit my Podcast Redefine Parenting Show: