There never seem to be enough hours in the day, especially when you are a single parent and everything is your responsibility. Sometimes it feels like the only time I stop moving is when I crawl in to bed at night. Then the only thing still moving is my mind, going over all the things that need to be done the next day.
All too often I find that the time I spend with Hailey I am doing something else so I’m distracted and not giving her my full attention. As single parents it’s important to slow down and give your child your undivided attention, even if it’s only for fifteen minutes or so.
This is where dinner as a family really comes into play. There have been so many studies showing the importance of sitting down and eating dinner with your children. As the mom who has been on the go since the alarm clock went off this morning, sitting down to dinner may be the only break you get all day.
Try to have dinner with your kids every night. I know this seems like a big goal but you have to eat anyway, take the time to sit down and eat together. Sitting at the dinner table gives everyone the chance to talk about their day and allows you, as their parent, to get a little glimpse into their world.
It’s at the dinner table that you may pick up on something that’s bothering them, or maybe a new friend who’s not such a good influence. Take the time to sit and visit with your kids. Give them the same attention you would give a friend who stopped by, listen to them, engage them in conversation.
Do not use dinner time as a time to dole out punishments or lectures; instead make it a time your kids look forward to. Talk about your plans for the weekend, or an upcoming birthday party, or the cards they can help you make for their teachers. If you hear a funny story, share it with your children, there is nothing like the sound of your child’s laughter.
Even if it’s takeout pizza night, sit at the table and eat it. Your kids will look forward to it. One night last week Hailey and I were having fend for yourself night and we were both making and eating different things. I started to carry my dinner to the computer desk so I could get some writing done but Hailey stopped me. She wanted us to eat at the table together. I’m so glad she did.