You want to be a good parent and have good parenting skills. Sometimes what’s happening on a day to day basis and the speed of your life is so action packed that some key qualities disappear. Over the next four posts I’ll be looking at four traits that will help you improve your parenting skills.
Availability – Part 1
Does this ring any bells?
Your child asks for help or wants to talk to you and you’re busy doing something and you reply “In a minute”. You only intend to take a minute but other things get in the way and you don’t get round to seeing or speaking to your child about what ever it was they wanted to see you about in the first place.
When you do see your child perhaps he responds with “It doesn’t matter now” or “It’s not important” and goes off in a huff. Alternatively, as a way of grabbing your attention, a younger child might exhibit behaviours you’d rather not see, whining, crying, shouting and throwing or breaking things.
In your busy, action packed days make sure you have time for your child, particularly when they need you. I’m not saying you have to be at their beck and call all of the time or only be available when your child needs you.
Let your child know you are available for them and that the time you have together is important.
What about planning in some daily, quality time with your child?
It could include going for a walk, going to the park or reading/doing puzzles with them.
Older children still like to talk and reconnect perhaps over a coffee or even homework!
You don’t have to spend money on achieving these quality times. What is important, is the time and love you freely give.