Enjoying The Kids In Your Life More

Today I had the honor of witnessing little Ms. Elena Francis get christened. It was wonderful to be a part of such a wonderful celebration.  And after the beautiful youth-driven church service Elena was able to put on a pretty pink tutu and enjoy her 1st year birthday party.

Watching the festivities made it very clear, as life gets more fast paced, we find ourselves thinking “where has the time gone?”. Technological advancements are frees up our time so we can get more done daily but we simply just don’t have the time to take it all in.

When we are so focused on getting more done there is a tendency to overlook the small important moments of life. Slowing down allows us to see what we may have previously missed. We can really see those subtle details that make things beautiful. We gain a better appreciation and understanding when we consciously slow down.

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Our kids are no different. They will never be as young or as little as they are right this minute. The number one rule to enjoying the kids in your life more: Slow down. Enjoy them, take them in. Children generally crave attention, and a way to enjoy them is to join them.

This means that instead of just giving them a movie to watch, view it with them. When your children are swimming, join them in the pool. Be creative in finding ways to enjoy your children, nieces, nephews, etc. Making cookies for them is nice, yet making cookies with them means more. Instead of just watching them play ball, try joining them. Playing games and reading to them are also very important ways to enjoy your children. Since the summer is quickly approaching, look for opportunities to join your children in doing things together.

Enjoying children requires effort. It is easier to constantly watch them and comment on their antics than it is to join them. Watching them can send the message to the child that they are objects for parent's enjoyment or that they are to be criticized by adults. Joining them sends the message, "you are important" and "you have value." Our children look to us for affirmation. It is up to the adults in their lives to choose if children are to be enjoyed.

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