Finding time for your Children

I find it interesting when many of my friends talk about how difficult it is to find time for family in our busy schedules.  I agree it can be a bit challenging but I would also add it is one of the most important jobs we have as parents.  I think if we thought more about the ultimate benefits and less about it as just another task to get done before the end of the week it could change the experience completely.

Recently my boys were talking about wanting to get in shape for baseball and we took a trip to the local gym.  Oh my God - I never knew Gyms had become so expensive.   I was fortunate enough to mention the idea I had about buying a used Blowflex as a more economical alternative because within a week we had a used Bowflex in the bonus room.

The reason I present this story is because of what this seemingly insignificant purchase has done with regard to my relationship with my children and to my priorities - I have discovered a new way of interacting with my children.  We meet every other day and for an hour, we workout but more importantly we talk.  It was very superficial at first but as the days pass I can really see how much they are growing up.  I see examples of their likes and dislikes, their reasoning skills and I learn so much about them as people.   I try to let them talk about whatever they want and basically let the time be focused on them.  It is not a time for me to lecture or try to tell them long stories about me, it's a time where I can sit close to them and get a glimpse of their world.  It is time that flies by so quickly and I swear there is nothing more important to be done. 

I would recommend you find a way to get to really know your children and I would be delighted if you would share your ideas and success in rediscovery.

LifeCoach