Summer is a great time to connect with your kids in ways that you may not be able to during the rest of the year.
While summer can still be busy, there are a lot more opportunities to slow down and get to know your kids better. Often in the unplanned moments, you can gain a better understanding of their budding personalities, interests and talents.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to spending quality bonding during the summer season but below we share several guidelines that may work well in certain situations:
1. Plan ahead and be present: If you want to engage with your kids and have memorable experiences, it’s important to plan ahead.
This means being present both mentally and physically. Make sure you’re not distracted by work, your phone, or other things when you’re spending time with them.
2. Get outside: One of the best ways to bond with your kids is to get outside and enjoy the summer weather together.
There are endless possibilities here, whether it’s going for a hike, playing sports, or simply exploring your neighborhood.
3. Be flexible: With kids, anything can happen. So it’s important to be flexible in your plans and go with the flow.
Things might not always go as you expect, but that’s all part of the fun.
4. Make it special: Even if you’re just doing everyday activities, make them feel special by giving your undivided attention.
This could mean turning off electronics, making eye contact, and really listening when they’re talking to you.
5. Take advantage of teachable moments: Summer is a great time to teach your kids new things or help them practice existing skills.
You can take advantage of teachable moments by turning everyday activities into learning opportunities.
For example, if you’re cooking dinner together, you can teach them about measuring ingredients, following a recipe, or cooking safety.
6. Be silly: One of the best parts of being a kid is getting to be silly and have fun. So don’t take yourself too seriously when you’re spending time with your kids.
Let loose, be goofy, and enjoy their company.
7. Connect on a deeper level: Quality bonding time doesn’t always have to be about doing something.
It can also be about just being together and connecting on a deeper level. This could involve conversation, sharing stories, or working on a project together.
8. Keep it positive: Try to focus on the positive when you’re spending time with your kids. This doesn’t mean you have to avoid important topics, but try to keep the overall tone light and upbeat.
9. Be patient: Just like with anything else in parenting, patience is key. Things might not always go as planned, but it’s important to remain calm and patient.
This will help create a more positive experience for both you and your kids.
10. Have fun: Last but not least, make sure you’re having fun too! If you’re not enjoying yourself, it’s unlikely that your kids will be either.
Find activities that you enjoy and make the most of your time together.
Summer is a great time to reconnect with your kids and create lasting memories. By following the tips above, you can make the most of your time together and create bonds that will last a lifetime.
© 127 Pediatrics, June 2022
Dr. Andrea Wadley is the owner, pediatrician, and breastfeeding medicine specialist for 127 Pediatrics. She has an established house calls pediatric practice in Colleyville, TX, and sees patients once a week at Sky Women’s Health in Fort Worth, TX for concierge breastfeeding medicine consults, lactation consults, fourth-trimester care, tongue tie clipping, and medical ear piercing.
