Being there for your kids - Formula for Best...Times...Ever

Episode Date: May 24, 2019

As a child, growing up, what are some of the best...times...ever that you remember with your family? As a parent in your own family now, what can you do to help your children have the same kind of "best ever" memories to take from their childhood? To the extent that you develop healthy relationships with your kids, make quality time with them, and nurture their kindred spirit, creativity, and effective problem-solving, you have the foundation for great times with them. Such times can be in the moment and not cost you a dime. They can also be a well-planned family vacation, where each family member has opportunity to relax, enjoy, and explore their interests. Active listening your child's needs and feelings, brainstorming possibilities, and using family meetings for specific planning will give you opportunity to let the good times roll.

Hi, I'm Dr. John Robinson, and this is Teachable Moments. Let's talk about letting the good times roll in your family. Do you have a favorite childhood memory? I have three. As a small child, I would get up early on Saturday morning. My dad got up with me and made some breakfast. Then magically he would ask, want to go for a walk? That was a special dad time for talking, walking, and exploring. Also, we would usually find some wildflowers to bring back home to my mom. I also remember spending two weeks at a summer YMCA camp as I got older. I think I was seven when it began. Being a big boy on my own, meeting new friends and learning new skills was all great. One time after camp, my mom helped me unpack my trunk and discovered that none of the clothes that I had brought home were mine.

Uh, where are your clothes, Johnny? Well, mom, I traded them with the guys, you know. She was put out and fussed me, but at least my trades all fit me. Finally, summer vacation at the beach was super family fun. We all pitched in, planned stuff, and saved up so we could all have a great time. Usually, a good time's role to the extent that you include your children in the planning and preparation for them. Ask your child if she wants to do the activity. If not, have a talk about options. If it is a family activity, include her in the planning and talk up the part that would be fun for her. Get her input. Active listen to her feelings. As your child gets older, ages eight and beyond, think about they're inviting a friend to come along on vacation. Two kids who get along great

are usually easier to handle than one because they tend to occupy each other. Good times roll because of good planning, including and delegating, and having something each family member is looking forward to. It's summertime somewhere, let the good times roll. I'm Dr. Jonathan C. Robinson, licensed clinical psychologist and Christian author, and this has been Teachable Moments. Teachable Moments, Building Blocks of Christian Parenting, is available online at AmazonBooks.com and in local and national bookstores. More on Dr. Robinson at TMC-P-I-N-C.com.