#045 Why “A Bucket of Cheese” Still Makes Us Laugh: The Power of Quality Time

Let’s face it, with the stress of making ends meet and the day-to-day activities of life, we are all super heroes to our children.  I have wondered if I was doing it right and spending enough time with my children as they grew up.  I remember when the balance was off.  I took on a position at work that was taking away from my time with my boys.  I didn’t have an immediate solution to change jobs, so we changed how we were spending time on quantity and went for quality. 

A Saturday brunch after a hike in the local trails was always a good one or story time when driving to an event.  We would have one member start off the story and go round and round taking turns to add to it.  Somehow my youngest could always get the part in of “and a bucket of cheese!” 

It’s these little moments that took the stress off my husband and me.  It would set the tone for wherever we were headed.  And most of all, now that they are adults, all we have to say is “And a bucket of cheese” and we will all go into stitches. 

Intentionally creating these moments have paid off in the long run for all of us. 

So, what Is Quality Time to you?

For me, quality time is about being fully present with your child. It's those precious moments when you're engaged, attentive, and genuinely focused on each other. Here are some ideas on how to make the most of these moments:

Unplug and Be Present:

Put away the distractions, including phones and screens. Dedicate a specific time when both you and your child are fully present for each other.

Share Experiences:

Quality time can be as simple as going for a walk, baking together, or playing a board game. These shared experiences create lasting memories and strengthen your connection.

Listen Actively:

When your child talks, listen with your full attention. Ask questions and show genuine interest in what they have to say. This demonstrates that their thoughts and feelings are valued.

Be Playful:

Children thrive on play. Get down on the floor and play with toys, build something together, or engage in imaginative play. It's a wonderful way to bond and spark their creativity.

Learn Together:

Exploring new hobbies or interests with your child can be incredibly rewarding. Whether it's painting, gardening, or learning a new language, the shared learning experience deepens your connection.

Create Rituals:

Establishing daily or weekly rituals, such as bedtime stories or Sunday morning outings, provides consistency and a sense of anticipation for both you and your child.

Respect Their Interests:

Quality time is also about showing respect for your child's passions. If they have a particular interest or hobby, take an interest in it as well. It not only strengthens your bond but also encourages their individuality.

Be Patient and Understanding:

Sometimes, quality time may involve simply sitting quietly and being there for your child when they need to talk or process their feelings. Patience and understanding go a long way in building trust.

Celebrate Achievements:

Acknowledge and celebrate your child's achievements, no matter how small. Recognizing their efforts boosts their self-esteem and reinforces your support.

Express Love and Affection:

Never underestimate the power of physical affection. Hugs, cuddles, and expressions of love create a warm and secure environment for your child.

In essence, quality time is about making your child feel loved, heard, and cherished. It's an investment in their emotional well-being and in the unbreakable bonds you share as a family. Remember, it's not about the quantity of time you spend together, but the quality of your presence during those moments.

 As you embark on this journey of nurturing parent-child bonds, cherish each moment, and watch your relationship flourish.

Want more ideas for building a family that’s close, connected, and full of joy?

Download the free ebook:

“How to Create Family: The 3 Strategies to Build a Stronger Home.”

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