Tammy Sassoon
Why Quality Time with Children Matters
In the whirlwind of modern life, it’s easy to get swept away by the demands of work, chores, and constant digital distractions. However, amidst the chaos, one of the most crucial investments we can make is in our children. Spending quality time with them is not just about keeping them busy; it’s about nurturing their growth, fostering strong bonds, and shaping their future.
I was once at a conference in a wonderful school, and the auditorium was filled with highly-talented teachers and principals. One principal asked each teacher to state why she thought children suffer from low self-esteem today, more than ever. My favorite answer was given by a very wise older woman who said that when she was a child her mother was home, and that meant that her children mattered. It was such a simple, yet profound answer. This role model of a woman was saying that her mother didn’t have to go learn fancy techniques about how to make her children feel their self-worth, because by virtue of being home it meant that her focus was her family.
While times have certainly changed, we can hold on to the age-old value of spending time with our children. Somehow it became the norm for people to complain about the work involved in raising children. “Uch, I have to drive carpool today,” “I have to cook again,” etc. While the responsibilities can certainly be overwhelming sometimes, and it is important to honor our feelings, raising children is a great gift not to be taken for granted. I was once standing with a bunch of young teachers in a school hallway while they were having a conversation about their woes of paying a babysitter while they come to work. There was a 40-year-old woman working behind a partition who dreamed of having just one child. She had a strong way of saying things, and when she came out from the partition, she said, “You ladies might want to think about what you are complaining about. Some people only wish to have the struggle of paying a babysitter. For you it’s a reality.” While most people might just think that and not say it, it was eye opening and refreshing to be reminded about the gift of children. That is not to say mothers don’t have to struggle, of course they do! But we can use those struggles to turn to Hashem instead of to be ungrateful, bringing misery to ourselves and to those around us.
Foundation of Strong Relationships
Spending quality time with your children provides a safe and nurturing environment for children to feel loved, understood, and valued. When parents actively engage with their children, they communicate a powerful message, “You are important to me.” The sense of security and belonging is crucial for a child’s emotional and social development.
Creating Lasting Memories
Beyond the immediate benefits, spending quality time with children creates lasting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. These shared experiences, whether it’s a family vacation, a simple game of catch in the backyard, or a bedtime story, create rich memories that will continue to nourish the parent-child bond long after the children have grown up.
Valuable Investment
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever to prioritize quality time with our children. The benefits are immeasurable, from strengthening relationships and fostering emotional growth to creating lasting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. By investing in our children and nurturing their development through meaningful interactions, we are not only shaping their future but are also enriching our own lives.
Tips for Making the Most of Quality Time
Be Present: When you spend time with your children, put away distractions like phones and focus on being fully present in the moment.
Engage in Meaningful Activities: Choose activities that you and your children enjoy, such as reading, playing games, cooking, or exploring nature.
Create a Routine: Establish regular times for quality time, such as family dinners or game nights.
Listen Actively: Pay attention to what your children have to say, ask questions, and show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings.
Show Affection: Physical affection, such as hugs and kisses, is essential for building strong emotional bonds.