How do your kids know that you love them? Do they know because you work hard every day to make sure their needs (and many of their wants) are met? Or is it because you clean up countless messes and do never-ending loads of laundry for them? Do you say “I love you” every night when you tuck them into bed? Yes, these are all wonderful ways to show our kids that we love them. But today I want to share a little secret with you that I actually learned from my mother long before I had children of my own. What’s the secret?
Children spell love T-I-M-E.
Our kids really want (and need) our time and attention. Not a bunch of toys, not over-the-top birthday parties, not a gigantic pile of Christmas presents. But time with mom and dad.
Time to play, talk, laugh, cry, and explore. Time to learn from one another and really experience life together. My girls’ favorite memories are of times we spent together having adventures (both big and small) as a family. They remember a few special toys and gifts, but it’s the family times and traditions that hold so much more meaning for them.
Childhood is such a short, precious season. Instead of spending our days trying to get our kids the right stuff, let’s focus on giving them what they really want and need- time with us!
“Your children need your presence more than your presents.” ~Jesse Jackson