Have you ever gone through the day consumed with Mom (or Dad) guilt? It’s a nagging feeling that comes and goes throughout the day, because you feel pulled in a thousand different directions.
I experience the most guilt when I haven’t been truly present with my daughter. Sure, I have two jobs, a house to clean, meals to cook, a marriage and other relationships to foster, errands to run, a body/mind/soul that needs its own TLC, but I also have three little people who think that I am their whole world. Phew. No pressure, right?
Wouldn’t you know it? The love language of my oldest also happens to be quality time, so when our time together falls short, it feels extra heavy. Let’s be honest, I don’t have an unlimited amount of time to give her. What I’ve found though, is that even 10 minutes of being present with her leaves us both feeling calmer and more connected.
When our time together isn’t competing with her sisters (twins!), work emails, and dishes, she feels my presence in an unparalleled way. My full attention allows her to feel seen, heard, and loved which leads to a more confident child, less whining, and less mom guilt. Knowing this allows me to build time into my schedule daily to just be with her.
Simple things that you can do to be present with your child:
- Leave your phone in the other room
- Get down on their level & make eye contact
- Set a timer for 15 minutes and let them lead playtime
- Physical touch, hugs, cuddles
- Have a dance party/sing a song
- Invite them to help you with your to-do list
Love,
Aubrey
