9 Tips to help you get quality time with your child

Tips to help you get quality time with your child from Tiny Toes Ballet.

1. Focus on finding just 10 minutes

I am definitely guilty of trying to find hours and energy in the day that simply don’t exist. I worry that the quality time I can offer my children isn’t enough. Although a study actually found that just 10 minutes of quality time with your child makes a big difference. And when I think of it as just 10 minutes a day, I feel much less overwhelmed.

2. Ask about your child’s day

The power here is asking and genuinely listening for an answer. Setting aside that time to listen to what my child has to tell me and asking questions. My son’s eyes light up every time he realises I’m listening fully to his stories. This in turn then encourages him to open up more to me.

3. Be kind to yourself.

I’m definitely guilty of worrying about things that I probably shouldn’t worry about. I want to make things perfect for my children, but the most important thing is that your child is safe and happy. If that’s the case, then you’re doing pretty well. I try not to get too caught up in worrying about small things which can quickly add up. I definitely don’t always succeed but being kind to yourself is key.

4. Get creative together

Doing creative activities together can help you both express yourselves. It’s a great way to bond and having that lovely little output is a great way to remember the fun you had together. There are so many ways to be creative together. Your child might prefer to be messy and creative, or prefer something a little cleaner. Most of all they’ll love the opportunity to spend time with you and have fun together.

5. Sign your child up for an activity

It’s an opportunity for your child to do something fun. Here at tiny toes ballet, our classes give you the time to zone out and spend 1-1 time with your child without interruption. 

6. Put your phone away sometimes

Putting your phone away for however long each day can help create opportunities for your children to bond with you. What you do doesn’t really matter. It’s more about having that opportunity for quality time.

7. Sit down without any other distractions

Just being present makes a huge difference. Sitting down without distractions like phones, TV, books etc gives your child the opportunity to approach you. They’ll come to you. It’s more about creating opportunities like this.

8. Ask for help with cooking

Your child will love the opportunity to bond with you while dinner is cooking. They’ll love being trusted to stir the sauce or for bigger kids to help carefully chop the food. You’ll probably find that fun and conversation come naturally. But giving your child your time is the most powerful gift you can offer.

9. Read together

Reading books together is a great way to sneak in some bonding time. You can get as silly as you like with it. My son is big on bedtime stories and loves me putting on silly voices. But letting your child read their books from school to you counts too. The fact that you’re present and actively listening is great. Additionally, it can help boost the confident of your children by encouraging them to read out loud.