How to Feel Fully Present With Your Kids

One of the biggest questions on our minds as moms is, “How can I feel more present with my kids? Time goes by so fast and I want to feel like I’m really connecting with them”.

Sometimes I really wish we could slow down time. Everyone told me that once their kids started elementary school time went by crazy fast, and I can definitely relate to the feeling. I’m still in shock that we’re almost in 2024.

The reminder of how quickly my kids are growing, inevitably brings with it a sense of longing to be able to cherish every moment with them.

So how can we feel like we’re really present with our kids and taking in the moments that we’re with them?

Here is an idea of something so simple yet so powerful.

Having a dedicated, no interruptions time, when we bring our whole selves to our kids.

To be very honest, a lot of our interactions with our kids are when we’re also trying to juggle a million things. Believe me, I know. Something we can do, is to take a short amount of time, even 5 minutes where we are committed to focusing solely on our children. That means putting away our phones and to-do lists, and letting it be just us and them. During this time we can get onto their level (I mean height level, though emotional level would make sense too;)), make eye contact, and practice mindful conversing by listening without interruption and asking follow up questions. You can also create a ritual for the end of your special time, by including something like a hug for each kid and saying, “I really love spending time with you.”

Even as adults we desire real connection and to feel understood. When we spend this time with our kids, we’re showing them that they are the most important thing in our lives.