We all know how it is – we’re busy Busy BUSY – all the time! The trick is dividing our time the best way possible. We need to find the time and balance for work time, alone time, couples time and kiddie time.
Work time is pretty clear – it’s work, whether from the house or out at your place of work.
Alone time can be going for a soak in the tub, a run, an hour at the gym, or a massage – or whatever is your thing.
Couples time is fun AND important – there’s decluttering your closet together (!), watching a movie together, relaxing on the sofa playing your fav games at SlotoCash Casino together, getting dressed up and going out for a date night dinner together and more and more!
And then there’s kiddie time! Most busy moms are frustrated that they only get a few hours to bond with their kids. The one thing working parents dread to hear their kids say is that they spend more time with their nannies. Your kids will probably spend more hours with the sitter, but there is something you can do to connect with them with the few hours you get per day.
Here are ways working moms can support, nurture, and love their kids despite their swamped schedules.
- Family Movie Night
You can pick a day of the week and make it a movie night. It will allow you to decompress and give you something to bond over with your kids. You don’t need to go to a theater. Work on a themed movie night, like installing LED nights, dressing up in pajamas, or having stickers of your favorite characters.
You can also make popcorns and other snacks to enjoy when watching TV. The whole process of planning makes everything special. For instance, everyone can have their turn picking movies to watch. This will allow you to learn about your kids’ interests, and they will also be thrilled to know what you love.
- Have a Bedtime Routine
A bedtime routine helps children sleep better. It is also one of the best ways to bond with your children. If you get home late and merely have the time to have a movie night, there are other ways you can spend time with your kids. Winding down a work week is a perfect opportunity to connect with your kids.
The bedtime routine will allow you to relax after a busy day at school and work and set the tone for the following bed. There are many ways to give your kids undivided attention at this time and connect. For instance, you can give your child a warm bath, play soothing music for them, or even tell them bedtime stories.
You can also take a pajama walk or just cuddle before they sleep. You can also give them the freedom to choose what they want to do before bedtime; alternatively, you can take turns making these decisions.
This could also be the time you share how your day was; this way, you can keep track of your child’s progress at school and overall experience. Positive affirmations before bed is also a great way to bond during a work week.
- Do Chores
While work weeks can be exhausting, you can pick a day when you can do chores together. The tasks can be yours or theirs. For instance, you can wash dishes or help them organize their rooms after dinner.
It doesn’t need to be complicated. You will get the opportunity to spend time together, and your kids will learn new skills; many kids learn how to care for themselves and their families through house chores. These skills are helpful in their adult lives too.
- Have a Morning Routine
A morning routine will allow you to spend time with your child daily. As you chart your routine, add ten minutes to spend with your child.
For instance, you can pack snacks for the family together. If your child is of age, you can exercise and plan your day together. Moms with younger kids can bond over brushing teeth, washing their faces, or combing hair together.
Instead of taking breakfast at the office, do it at home with your child as you connect as you discuss your night or plans for the day. With time, this will be automatic; neither you nor your child will feel like you are missing out on each other’s lives.
- Classes
Have you ever considered learning something new with your son or daughter? This is an exciting way to connect. You could take a music class once a week or every two weeks. Whether it is a new sport or playing the guitar, learning together will give your child some comfort.
They also get an opportunity to learn how to handle challenges that come with honing new skills. In the process, you will take note of their strengths and weaknesses and establish ways to help your kids get around them.
Helping your child with a topic they are struggling with at school will allow you to connect and give them the support they need to catch up with other kids at school.
- Scheduled Dates
Instead of having a movie night and doing chores together, plan dates regularly. This will make your kids look forward to bonding with you.
Whether on a date at their favorite restaurant, playing, or camping in your yard, you will have quality time with your child. They will look forward to it and enjoy the moment thoroughly when it happens.
Conclusion
Many parents wish they would spend more time with their kids but have busy schedules. There are many opportunities to connect with your child during a work week that you never thought existed. Take advantage of bedtime and morning routines to bond with your child.
You can also be intentional and set dates when you can have quality time with your children and show them love.
