How to Create Meaningful Moments
By Mikal Mihelish, SWLC
As the back-to-school routines begin, we can often get lost in the chaos of it all. Getting back in the swing of things and adapting to the new school year routine can be hard on everyone in the family. Parents and caregivers often find that it is hard to find balance between the busy of back-to-school season and still finding ways to connect with their children.
As humans, we all thrive on connection. Meaningful relationships are what help sustain our day-to-day life. Strong connections can help us feel supported, loved, and safe. As the summer ends, we tend to focus on buying school supplies, packing lunches, or first day of school outfits. Those things may be important, but we often forget to create time and effort into making meaningful moments and connections with our children during this busy time.
So, how can we do this? Below are listed a few helpful ways that parents and caregivers can create meaningful small moments and connections with their children.
Prioritize 30 minutes of uninterrupted one-on-one time with your child. Encourage your child to choose the activity. Give them your undivided attention. Avoid screens, distractions and multitasking during this time.
Within the first month of school, eat a “back to school” meal as a family. Each person shares their goals and worries for the upcoming school year.
Put the phone down. Electronics are very present in our lives, but it is important to spend time with your loved ones without the presence of electronic devices. Screen time can have a negative effect on communication skills and mental health (BayCare Pediatric).
Start a new dinner time tradition, such as each family member sharing one high and one low of their day. This can be a bonding experience and help us feel closer to each other.
Use specific praise to boost your child’s confidence. Examples include: “That was really awesome when you helped your sister tie her shoelaces, you are such a great brother.” or “I really appreciated how you cleaned up your toys when you were done playing, you are such a great helper!”
Utilize car rides for conversations! Ask specific, open-ended questions like “what made you smile today?” or “what was your favorite thing that happened today?” to help the conversation flow. Let your child take the lead where the conversation goes next.
Go on a short 15-minute walk after dinner with your child. Enjoy some nice weather, conversation, and exercise together.
Write your child a sticky note of encouragement in their backpack or lunch box. A few simple words like “I am so proud of you!” or “I love you, have a great day!” on a note can help children feel seen, loved, and appreciated.
Create a morning goodbye ritual with your child, such as a special handshake or hug. This can help early mornings and back to school transitions not feel as nerve racking or lonely.
Play a song everyone enjoys during the car ride to school in the morning. This helps to start the day positively with some good tunes, while also creating a positive experience for children.
Read a short book or a chapter together before bedtime. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is beneficial for children and caregivers. Reading together is a wonderful way to create meaningful moments.
Have a game night. Games can be fun for everyone! Find a team game that everyone in the family can enjoy and play. Try to focus on the game, not who wins or loses.
Do a craft that can be tailored to your family’s interests. Doing crafts together can promote family bonding. Examples include painting rocks, a handprint family tree, or friendship bracelets.
Additionally, being a parent or caregiver can be challenging at times. Just like children, adults can have hard days too. Take care of yourself and recognize when you may need support. Taking care of yourself will help you be able to best connect with your children. Please remember, you matter too!
As we enter this busy back-to-school season, make it a point to implement a few of the strategies listed above. Strong caregiver-child bonds are crucial to building positive childhood experiences. Healthy and positive relationships help create a sense of belonging and emotional stability for children. Small, meaningful moments are what helps make life so special.