time for family
Question and Answer
There aren't enough hours in the day to do all that needs to be done and spend quality time with our kids. But I'm afraid that someday I'll regret my day-to-day decisions to focus on a clean house. How can I change?
A few years ago, family experts were preaching that what's really important is "quality time" not "quantity time." More recent research indicates that children need both quality AND quantity time. In fact, the more involved parents are with their children, the less likely they are to have social, emotional or academic problems; use drugs or alcohol; be involved in crime or have premarital sex.
You may need to examine your priorities. A spotless home isn't nearly as important as a close relationship with your children. One of the easiest ways to make more time for your kids is to turn off the television. In the average American home, the television is on 49 hours per week. Contrast that with this statistic: the average amount of time that both parents spend in meaningful conversation with their children is 39 MINUTES per week. Instead of watching television with your kids, read to them, play board games together, take a walk to a local park or just talk with them.
It's also important not to get your kids overly involved in activities outside the home. Some parents feel pressure to enroll their kids in numerous sports teams, music and dance lessons, and community groups. Kids don't need a dozen different weekly activities. They need quality and quantity time with involved, committed parents.
Background Information
Making Good Decisions
What to do about avoidance — one of the biggest time wasters around.
Evaporating Family Time
It's easy to get caught up in the business of life. It's not as easy to make it up to your kids.
Questions and Answers
I have very little time to spend with my children these days, but I make sure the hours we do get to spend together are meaningful. Do you agree that the quality of time you are with your kids is more important than the quantity?
Answer
Our son has been spending all of his time with friends and leaves no time for family activities. What should we do?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
About Time
It's never too soon to start making memories with your children. For one dad, it's too late.
Missing Dad
Though in 5- and 6-year-old language I would have never called him a "workaholic," I suppose my dad fit the description.
Leaving the Majors for More
Choosing family over career isn't easy; but the rewards are priceless.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
If you sweat the small stuff, it's time to learn how to break free from the control freak inside of you.
Fitting Kids Into a Life
We're well-versed in how to make it in the corporate world. What we need is a little advice about making it in the nursery.
Dare To Be Different
Encouraging individuality is the best way to fend off peer pressure.
Beyond Books and Diplomas
Do you want your kids to be leaders? The formula for getting there might surprise you.
Related Topics
Transitions: Changing Jobs, Moving
Relationships: Communication Gaps
Parenting Teens: Communication Problems
