The Moment

*photo

This is something I need reminding. Life is so busy it's easy to get swept away in it without being mindful of what's going on in the moment.

John Lennon..life is what happens while you're busy making other plans...

In spite of our best intentions, we run on automatic pilot to the point where we become stressed and pressed for time.

The richness lies in the moment

We are social beings. We are in relation to others...that's where we learn, we teach, we attach, we grow, we believe. We need each other, we want people's time and acknowledgement. So do our kids....they want time and space with you.

Having undisturbed time with your children for even a few minutes a day is the only place you will learn who they are. How else can you connect? You can't hear them when you are busy doing work, or chores...Have you ever said. "I'm listening, I'm listening." while you're cooking and washing dishes at the same time?

Connecting in the moment not only allows you to be open and in wonder with your child, you learn get to be open and in wonder with yourself too.

*flickr photo: neloqua

Relationship Matters

As parents, we give many instructions to our children. 'Put on a sweater, clean up those plates,' etc. If we want our children to cooperate we must have a foundation of trust and respect. We have to have a healthy relationship. If we don't, we will find resistance.

Six critical messages, that children should hear daily verbally or non-verbally are:

1. I believe in you.

2. I trust you.

3. I know you can handle life's situations

4. You are listened to and respected

5. You are cared for

6. You are very important to me.

It is never too late to use these messages and strengthen the bond you have with your child. Make eye contact, hug, nod, smile, sit together. Take time. It's easier to give demands when you are connected.