1. Read books
Let them pick out the books and read and re-read the books. More than the educational benefits of being read to, reading books together is relaxing. It is a wonderful way to really spend quality time, snuggle time and share physical closeness.
Here is a short video of me reading to baby David and Lizzie. Such wonderful memories!
2. Get in their world
What do they love to do? Get in that world, don’t just blow bubbles, but pretend the bubbles are magical and become a character in their make believe. Dress up, carve time just for them. Don’t pause their world to check your email or your phone, make this time 100 % for them. You will be amazed what you learn about your children when you focus entirely on their play.
3. Make them something
This can be as simple as break and bake cookies or you can even make friendship jewelry. If you make jewelry, you can smile from ear to ear whenever they wear it. A child will feel extra special when they know you made something just for them. There is just something wonderful about a hand made gift. And it doesn’t have to be elaborate either! Do it simply, but the thought and heart will bring you closer to your child.
4. Do a good deed for someone together
Maybe make a dozen cookies and take them to a friend’s house or go as a family and visit people in the nursing home with handmade cards. Instilling values is tough these days, but when you live out by example, this effort became a lot easier. Not only are you creating memories, you are teaching your children the joy of serving others.
I love all of these! This just proves you don’t have to buy your kids a bunch of toys so your kids know they’re loved.
I love every single idea!
What good, simple tips. I need to be better about putting my phone down and not having it with me, that’s a hard one for me!
Love all of these ideas! Thanks for sharing them 🙂
I love that you put doing something for someone else on the list. It is a great gift to children to teach them about caring as a circle: We feel better about ourselves when we care for others. It is a two sided gift!