Do you give your children 8 minutes of attention per day?

(I came across this notice in a leadership newsletter recently and loved it! Parents are a child’s first and most important teacher. Investing uninterrupted time in your child AND partnering with your child’s school are two of the most important things you can do).

Stop what you’re doing and give 100% attention to each of your children for at least 8 minutes a day. Small emotional investments like one-on-one; quality time now will help ensure your kids grow up feeling safe, valued and listened to.

Time is precious…but not as precious as your children. That’s why it’s so important to set aside at least 8 minutes every day of distraction-free time to engage with each of your kids, one on one, without interruptions. Put down your phone, iPad or laptop and take the time to really BE with them - exchanging stories, asking and answering questions, sharing a laugh…whatever works best!

Your child will feel more listened to, valued, safer and happier. Studies show that kids who receive this kind of attention do better at school, with greater language skills and higher self-confidence. With benefits like these, there’s no better way to spend 8 minutes a day.

ACTIONS

• Sit down with your child for at least 1 meal every day.

• Read a book together before bed or tell a story of your own.

• Ask questions about your child’s life that need more than a one-word answer.

• For older kids, discuss a news item they might be interested in.