Spend Time With Kids

In the bustling life of Kathmandu, where the rhythm of daily activities often overshadows our most cherished relationships, it’s easy to forget the fleeting nature of childhood. As a journalist and a parent to a 7-year-old daughter, I’ve come to realise that the days of her childhood are slipping away faster than I ever anticipated. It’s a poignant reminder for all of us to spend time with your kids before they grow up.

My daughter, like many others her age, is at a stage where her curiosity is boundless, her imagination vivid, and her need for parental attention immense. Each day brings new discoveries, new questions, and new ways she expresses her love. These moments, while seemingly ordinary, are precious and irreplaceable. Yet, in the whirlwind of our careers, household responsibilities, and social commitments, it’s all too easy to let these moments slip through our fingers.

 One day, our children are looking up at us with wide-eyed wonder, and the next, they are navigating their own paths, shaped by experiences and influences beyond our control. The childhood years, especially before the teenage turbulence sets in, are when they are most impressionable and open to our influence. This is the time when our presence can shape their sense of security, their emotional resilience, and their views of the world.

Research consistently shows that children who spend quality time with their parents tend to have better emotional and social outcomes. They develop stronger bonds with their families, exhibit higher levels of self-esteem, and are more likely to excel academically. These outcomes are not just the result of grand gestures but of consistent, meaningful interactions. It’s about those everyday moments including reading together, having conversations, sharing meals, or simply being present.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to prioritise work and other commitments over family time. However, as the saying goes, “Time flies when you’re having fun,” and this is particularly true with children. The hours we spend working, while important, are not more significant than the hours we spend with our children. Every laugh, every shared story, and every comforting hug contributes to a foundation that will support them long after they have left the nest.

Moreover, spending time with our children teaches them the value of relationships and presence. It sets a precedent for their own future relationships, emphasising the importance of making time for loved ones. In a society increasingly dominated by screens and digital interactions, the genuine connection that comes from spending time together cannot be overstated.

For those of us who find ourselves overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not about the quantity of time but the quality. Simple activities like a walk in the park, a game of cards, or a quiet moment before bed can be incredibly enriching. These moments do not require elaborate plans or extensive resources, just our undivided attention and love. As my daughter grows older, I am acutely aware that the time I have with her in this stage of her life is limited. While the demands of life are undeniable, they should not overshadow the importance of our presence in our children’s lives. 

Let us cherish and prioritise the time we spend with our children. These years are precious and irretrievable, and the investment we make in our relationships today will pay dividends in the years to come. As we navigate the complexities of our modern lives, let’s ensure that we don’t miss out on the most significant aspect of our existence, being present for our children as they grow up.