If you have ever found yourself overwhelmed and too busy to be in the present with your kids, you’re not alone. The truth is, many mothers find themselves consumed with work, school, extracurriculars, and household duties. However, one of the key signs of good parenting skills is setting time aside to spend with your family. This is how you get to know your kids better and make precious memories with them.
As a mom, there are probably times when you’ve asked yourself: “Will I be a good mom?” And that’s fine. Things happen sometimes, so do not beat yourself up about it. The good news, though? You can change it to make yourself a more present mother.
Sometimes, we forget what being truly present even means. We are there with them physically but not really there mentally. Being present means clearing your mind, being truly there in the moment, and actively listening to your children. Here are four ways to show you have good parenting skills.
Four Signs of Good Parenting Skills to Keep in Mind
Limit Distractions
While this may seem easier said than done, it is important in achieving successful parenting. Our lives are full of distractions, more so than they have ever been before.
In fact, most of us carry our smartphones with us everywhere we go, constantly checking notifications, browsing the internet, and scrolling through social media. These phones serve as a major distraction for some mothers.
That isn’t the only issue, though. Many of us become distracted by planning, overthinking, and worrying. This is where it becomes important to ensure that you limit the distractions in life. Whenever possible, ditch the phones, schedules, and worrying and attempt to truly pay attention to the present moment with your kids.
Make Time For Your Children
You’ve probably wondered at some point in your life, what skills do responsible parents need to have? You don’t have to be an expert at everything, after all. Time is powerful, and making time for your kids is surely more than enough for them.
While you may be busy with work and all the things that come with being a mother, it can seem neverending. It’s important that you set aside time to spend directly with your kids, talking with them and learning about their interests. This way, if you’re ever asked, ‘do you know your kid,’ the answer will be a resounding yes.
Whether that means simply setting a 10-minute timer and having a conversation with them each day or setting aside time to go out for ice cream, it is important to make time to just be with your kids.
Listening and Participating is a Hallmark of Successful Parenting
Children usually enjoy telling you stories and speaking to you, but you may find yourself rushing them or not truly listening. If they have something to talk to you about, it is important to stop whatever you are doing whenever possible and truly listen.
Do you also know how to be an encouraging parent? Paying attention to what your children are saying, participating in the conversation, and making sure to ask questions are important in achieving this. It will show your kids that you truly care what they have to say.
Simplify Life
One of the simplest and most important signs of good parenting skills is making time for your family. If you want to be a more present mother, it’s important that you do not overload your schedule. Look at what you can do to simplify life. If possible, nix some of the items on your to-do list.
Being present also means having the time to spend. It’s OK to say no to some things, especially if it means being more present for your children. When it comes to being a more present mother, it’s important that you limit distractions, make time, truly listen to your children, participate in conversations with them, and whenever possible, simplify your life.
After all, no matter how cliché this may sound, children do grow up too fast and you do not want to miss it.