This week's Thriving Single Parent story comes from a reader named J.J., who wrote in to share a simple tool for bonding with your kids: reading together.
The other night, my 10-year-old asked me to read a book out loud with him, taking turns with each chapter. Of course I had other things to do at the time, but I stopped what I was doing to lay down and read with him. I mean, how much longer is he going to want to do this kind of stuff with together, right? Before I know it, he'll probably be off with his friends, not wanting anything to do with me. LOL... So I try to take full advantage any time he initiates doing something like this together.
She's right. This time in your life--when your kids are constantly pulling at you, wanting you to engage in some activity or another with them--only lasts so long. Before you know it, your kids will be grown, and you'll be struggling to adjust to life as an empty nest single parent.
Of course, I'm not reminding you of this in order to manipulate you, or guilt you, into dropping everything else that you're doing right this minute to go reconnect with your kids. However, adopting a long-term point of view on raising your children, as J.J. points out, really can help you rise above the tedium of your everyday routine, so that you can see your kids' pleas for what they are--invitations to spend time together.
So how about you? How do you bond with your kids? Let us know by answering the "Readers Respond" feature, Best Activities for Maintaining the Bond with Your Kids.
Share Your Own Stories Here on Our Site:
Spending time with your children is crucial and, I would add, that whatever is needed to include both parents equally (especially in single households) is even more important.
Put yourself in your child’s position – do you not long for your own friends, family, or co-workers to reinforce, validate and enrich your life? Its a simple analogy.
Please also remember, generally there are two single-parent households for every “single-parent” child.
Feel free to reply or respond to me directly at cwirkkala@hotmail.com
sincerely,
Chris Wirkkala (in Seattle)